Jordan Cox, a Kent batsman who will bat at number three for England in the opening Test match against Pakistan at Headingley, has acknowledged that Virat Kohli’s guidance during the 2026 Indian Premier League helped him prepare for the challenge.
After Jacob Bethell was out for the series due to a right knee injury he suffered during England’s ODI series against India, Cox took over. Cox will play in at least the first two Test matches of the series, according to England’s selectors.
In June 2026, Jordan Cox made his Test debut at The Oval against New Zealand, batting at number seven. A significant increase in responsibility comes with being promoted to number three. He batted at that position just once in the 2019 County Championship, so his first-class record at that position is limited.
During the 2026 Indian Premier League, what did Virat Kohli tell Jordan Cox ?
Cox discussed resilience and striking a balance between on-field aggression and off-field attitude with Kohli while playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the 2026 Indian Premier League. Jordan Cox also talked of the agonising experience of breaking his finger while training on the eve of a Test match in New Zealand in 2024, which prevented him from making his debut.
How has Jordan Cox and Joe Root trained for the Pakistan series?
For the Pakistan series, Joe Root has taken over as England’s Test captain for the second time. In The Men’s Hundred, Cox played alongside Root for the Welsh Fire and had the opportunity to learn from the brilliant batter.
Following Ben Stokes’ departure from international cricket, the series also represents a new chapter for England. While Stephen Fleming has been announced as the new England head coach and is scheduled to take over in December prior to the South Africa tour, Marcus Trescothick is acting as interim coach. Jordan Cox also described National Selector Marcus North’s support for him.
