Robinson Ruled Out of Second Test with Knee Injury, Hopeful of Return for Series Finale

England fast bowler Ollie Robinson has been ruled out of the second Test against New Zealand due to a knee problem. However, the team remains optimistic about his return for the third and final match of the series.

Robinson experienced knee soreness during a training session in Hove on Friday. Following a scan, England decided not to risk him for the second Test, which begins on Wednesday at The Oval. He will remain with the squad and his condition will be reassessed next week.

Sussex seamer Henry Crocombe has been called up as cover for Robinson. Crocombe is yet to make his international debut, but he has impressed this season with 21 wickets in Division One of the County Championship. Earlier this month, he also claimed four wickets for England Lions against South Africa A.

England were already without Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson for the second Test due to disciplinary reasons, and Robinson’s absence has further weakened their pace-bowling resources. The 32-year-old made an impressive return to the Test side after a two-year absence in the first Test, producing match figures of 7 for 77.

With Stokes and Atkinson unavailable, Jofra Archer has been recalled to the squad. Matthew Fisher and Sonny Baker are also among England’s pace-bowling options for the match.