As the build-up to the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston continues to grow, this match will provide an excellent opportunity for Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum to assess where their squad is at and how they look to be shaping up.

Following the announcement of the 15-strong squad for this Test match, much has been made of Ben Foakes being left out as Jonny Bairstow returned from injury to take up duties behind the stumps. Considering his impact as a specialist batter last summer, it will be interesting to see whether Bairstow’s form continues as he returns to the side.

Ollie Pope has been confirmed as vice-captain of the squad, while Chris Woakes and Mark Wood both returned, following lengthy absences from the Test side.

Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett have retained their positions as opening batters, and Pope as No.3. Joe Root and Harry Brook have retained their positions in the middle order, with Stokes and Bairstow completing the batting lineup. Dan Lawrence has also made it as a reserve batter.

There are several bowling options for England in the squad. Along with the returning Woakes and Wood, there are also James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson, Jack Leach, and Durham youngster Matthew Potts. Despite picking up an injury while playing for Lancashire, Anderson was considered fit enough for selection.

England had hosted Ireland for a solitary Test at Lord’s in 2019. England had won the match by 143 runs, with Leach putting in a Player-of-the-Match performance – a 92 in England’s second innings.

Day one is scheduled for June 1 with play expected to start at 11am at Lord’s.

England v Ireland Test: Match schedule

Day One, June 1, England v Ireland, Lord’s, London, 11 am