Jamie Smith to Miss England's New Zealand Tour for Paternity Leave

England's wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will miss the team's Test series against New Zealand in November and December due to paternity leave. Jordan Cox will take over as wicketkeeper, likely earning his first Test cap. The 16-man squad is captained by Ben Stokes, with matches scheduled in Christchurch, Wellington, and Hamilton.

England's cricket team faces a lineup change ahead of their Test tour to New Zealand, with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith stepping down temporarily for paternity leave. Jamie Smith will not join the team in November and December as he attends to personal commitments.

In Smith's absence, Jordan Cox is set to don the gloves, potentially earning his first Test cap during the series. Jacob Bethell, the 21-year-old batting all-rounder, joins the Test squad for the first time after making his international debut during summer T20 and ODI matches.

Leading the team is Ben Stokes, whose squad includes talents like Rehan Ahmed and Joe Root. The three-match series kicks off in Christchurch on November 28, with subsequent games in Wellington and Hamilton. England is looking to bounce back from a recent 1-2 series loss against Pakistan.

(With inputs from agencies.)