England-South Africa call in reinforcements for historic Oval Test

Photo: AFP

New Delhi: As England- South Africa prepare to lock horns at The Oval for the 3rd Test starting on Thursday, in order to take the winning lead both the sides have introduced changes in the squad.

Middlesex seamer, Toby Roland-Jones gets to make his England debut replacing Mark Wood who misses out due to a heel injury, with Steven Finn on standby.

England captain Joe Root said: "Consistency is a massive reason why he's highly thought of.

"He has taken a lot of wickets and he's been banging the door down.

"It's great for him to get his opportunity. He bowls consistent areas at good pace and gets the ball to move around, which is exactly what we're looking for."

Roland-Jones, 29, has taken 22 wickets at an average of 35 in the County Championship Division One this year and averages 23 with the bat.

Essex batsman Tom Westley will also make his debut at number three.

Westley, 28, has scored 478 runs at an average of 53.11, including two centuries, for County Championship leaders Essex this season.

"He's been very calm over the past couple of days and been very specific in his practice," said Root.

"He looks like a strong character that has a very good all-round game" added Root who will look to bounce back into the series by winning the historic 100TH test at The Oval.

While the Proteas have also called for reinforcement with pace bowler Kagiso Rabada back after suspension from the second Test.

The four-Test series is level at 1-1 after South Africa beat England at Trent Bridge following their defeat at Lord's.