England Look to Seal Series at Lord's Test Against Sri Lanka

England's stand-in captain Ollie Pope expresses confidence ahead of the Lord's Test against Sri Lanka. The hosts aim to win the second Test to secure the series. Despite injuries, Olly Stone steps in for Mark Wood as England announces its playing XI.

England's stand-in skipper Ollie Pope expressed confidence ahead of the Lord's Test against Sri Lanka, asserting that the hosts are fully prepared to clinch the series. The second Test in the three-match series starts on Thursday at the historic venue.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Pope stated, 'It's good we're getting pushed. Sri Lanka were impressive last week, especially the way they batted. The conditions weren't typical English pitches, but their performance was commendable. If we play our best cricket, we hope to secure a favorable result,' he added.

The Three Lions announced their playing XI for the second match, featuring Olly Stone replacing the injured Mark Wood. Despite a career marred by injuries, Stone has been pivotal in England's campaigns when fit, participating in 28 matches across formats this summer after missing most of the previous season due to a hamstring injury.