England's Ben Duckett Faces Potential Last-Minute Test Snag As First Child Arrives

England may alter their lineup for the second Test against West Indies at Trent Bridge, as opener Ben Duckett anticipates the birth of his first child. Duckett's availability remains uncertain, and Dan Lawrence is on standby. Skipper Ben Stokes emphasized family comes first while expressing confidence in young pacer Gus Atkinson.

England might be compelled to modify their lineup for the second Test against West Indies at Trent Bridge, as opening batsman Ben Duckett awaits the birth of his first child. The Test match, scheduled to commence on Thursday, sees Duckett's participation in doubt due to personal commitments.

According to ESPNCricinfo, the opener postponed his arrival at England's Tuesday training and was intermittently active in nets on Monday, prioritizing time with his fiancée, Paige. As this Test match is a home fixture for Duckett, it offers logistical ease, allowing him to juggle family and professional responsibilities. Though Duckett is named in the starting eleven, Dan Lawrence is on standby to replace him if necessary.

Captain Ben Stokes assured that plans are in place for Duckett, who is eager to play at his home ground in Nottingham. Stokes emphasized Duckett has the full support of him and coach Brendon McCullum. "We have a plan for Ben and his partner; a decision will be made if needed before the start," said Stokes, as reported by ESPNCricinfo.

Stokes reiterated that Duckett could leave and rejoin the team if required during the match. "He is determined to play, but our message is clear: family comes first. Whatever decision he makes, he has our support," Stokes added. He also expressed confidence in young pacer Gus Atkinson, expected to excel with the new ball alongside Chris Woakes.

In his debut at Lord's, Atkinson impressed with figures of 12 wickets for 106 runs, the fourth-best by a debutant. Stokes praised Atkinson's skill with the Dukes ball. "The ball hasn't moved much in the air but has been effective off the pitch. Gus is excellent at exploiting this," Stokes commented.

England's lineup for the second Test includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, and Shoaib Bashir. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)