Ollie Robinson, the Durham wicketkeeper, has been called up to join England’s Test squad in New Zealand as a replacement for the injured Jordan Cox. Cox, who was set to take the gloves for the entire series, sustained a fractured right thumb during England’s warm-up match against a Prime Ministers’ XI in Queenstown. The injury has ruled him out of the tour, prompting the call-up for Robinson, who will arrive in Christchurch on Saturday, day three of the first Test.
Robinson, who is yet to earn his Test cap, has been in excellent form in the County Championship. Since joining Durham from Kent, the 26-year-old has accumulated over 1,800 runs at an average of 53, including five centuries. He also boasts 92 dismissals behind the stumps in the last two seasons, showcasing his impressive skills with the gloves. His consistent performances helped Durham secure promotion in 2023 and stabilise in Division One this year.
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Though Robinson was not expected to be available for the first Test due to passport renewal processes, he will now be in contention for the second Test in Wellington, which starts on December 6. His call-up comes after Ollie Pope took the gloves for the opening Test, with Jamie Smith on paternity leave. Robinson had been a part of England’s Lions set-up since 2019 and was initially slated to tour Australia in early 2024.
The Durham keeper’s call-up marks a significant opportunity to prove himself, with England’s management seeking to establish a reliable wicketkeeper in the absence of the injured Cox. Robinson had been unfortunate to miss out on the role earlier this year when Jamie Smith was chosen ahead of him, but now has a chance to stake his claim for a spot in England’s long-term plans.
In an interesting coincidence, Robinson shares his name—and birthday, December 1—with the other Ollie Robinson, the England paceman, though they are not related.
As England prepares for the second Test next week, Robinson’s arrival adds depth to their squad, with the hope that he can make a seamless transition into the team.
