India, Aug. 6 -- England's first Test squad of the post-Bazball era bears the unmistakable imprint of transition, with Joe Root restored as captain and several discarded players recalled for the opening two matches of the three-Test series against Pakistan.

The 16-member group represents England's first selection since the dismantling of the Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum leadership axis that had defined their Test cricket for four years. Stokes has retired, while McCullum has relinquished control of the Test side to concentrate on England's limited-overs teams.

Root, who previously captained England between 2017 and 2022, will consequently begin his second permanent tenure at Headingley on August 19. Marcus Trescothick will operate as int...