LONDON – England have dropped batsman Jason Roy for the fifth and final test against Australia starting at The Oval on Thursday as they try to level the series after failing to claim the Ashes.
The out-of-form Roy is one of two changes to the side that lost the fourth test at Old Trafford on Sunday by 185 runs, with bowler Craig Overton also missing out.
They are replaced by all-rounder Sam Curran and Chris Woakes. Ben Stokes will play as a batsman only after injuring his shoulder at Old Trafford.
Australia, who retained the Ashes by taking a 2-1 series lead in Manchester, make one change with all-rounder Mitchell Marsh coming in to bolster the bowling attack. He replaces Travis Head.
Roy’s omission is no great surprise as he has struggled throughout the series having made his test debut in the warm-up match against Ireland.
The one-day specialist was the latest attempt to solve England’s opening woes but the gamble has not paid off and he has managed only 110 runs in eight innings with a top score of 31 at Old Trafford when he dropped down the order.
England are trying to avoid a home series defeat by Australia for the first time since 2001. (Reuters)