England Prepare for Jordan Cox's Potential Test Debut as Jamie Smith Goes on Paternity Leave

England coach Brendon McCullum said the team is keen to size up Jordan Cox in Test cricket as Jamie Smith is expected to leave the New Zealand tour after the First Test in Christchurch in December. Cox, a 23-year-old aggressive lower-order batsman, is in line for a Test debut as England make contingency plans for Smith's paternity leave. McCullum stated that Smith is likely to play the first Test in New Zealand and may miss the next two, but England have Cox in the squad as a backup.

Key Takeaways:

Jordan Cox, a 23-year-old aggressive lower-order batsman, is in line for a Test debut in New Zealand as Jamie Smith is expected to go on paternity leave.
Cox has not played in Pakistan but has a solid keeping style, which would be beneficial in New Zealand, a comfortable place to wicket-keep.
England coach Brendon McCullum believes Cox has a high ceiling in terms of talent, particularly with the bat, and may get the opportunity to bat down the order and take the gloves.
Cox does not keep for his county, Essex, in the championship, but his batting performances in New Zealand could increase competition for places in the top six ahead of the India series next summer and the Ashes.
Shoaib Bashir will join the Lions tour after Christmas to get experience in conditions he will face next winter, with a focus on red-ball cricket under the guidance of Andrew Flintoff.

Statistics:

England flies to New Zealand on November 16 for a three-Test tour starting at the Hagley Oval 12 days later.
The first Test in Christchurch is expected to be played in December, followed by matches in Wellington and Hamilton.
Shoaib Bashir, a talented fast bowler, needs bowling experience and will join the Lions tour after Christmas.

Sources:

"Nick Hoult, chief cricket correspondent in Multan, reporting on the England team's preparation for the New Zealand tour."
ESPN Cricinfo: "England travel to New Zealand after three-Test series in Pakistan"