England have dropped South African-born opening batsman Keaton Jennings for this week’s second Test against the West Indies at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua.

Jennings was sidelined after August 2017’s series against South Africa, but recalled against Pakistan in June 2018 – and was a permanent fixture in the Test XI prior to Wednesday’s omission.

He struck just 17 and 14 in the series opener against the West Indians, and other than November 2018’s 146 not out against Sri Lanka, has not struck a half-century in Test cricket since December 2016.

He will be replaced at the top of the order by debutant Joe Denly. The 32-year-old has 15 England limited-overs caps, but hasn’t yet played the longest format of the international game.

‘It gives Joe an opportunity. It’s disappointing for Keaton Jennings – he’s done some excellent things and he will continue to work on developing his game and be a big part of this squad,’ said captain Joe Root.

The England discard is the 26-year-old son of former South African U19 coach and Transvaal wicketkeeper Ray Jennings.

The hosts sport an early lead in the three-match series, after a 381-run win inside four days in the first Test at the Kensington Oval, in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Squad: Rory Burns, Joe Denly, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Moeen Ali, Ben Foakes, Sam Curran, Stuart Broad, Jimmy Anderson, Jack Leach.

Photo: Getty