England‘s roster for the forthcoming ODI tri-series featuring Pakistan and Sri Lanka has been revealed, naming Harry Brook as the squad’s skipper for the Asian tour. Scheduled to kick off on October 18, the tournament will see the English team take on both Pakistan and Sri Lanka in double-header matches, culminating in the final showdown at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on October 31.
This squad announcement follows England’s dominant limited-overs campaign against Sri Lanka last month, where they swept the T20Is 3-0 and secured the ODI series 2-1. Nevertheless, the touring party will be missing Jos Buttler as he continues his rehabilitation from a hamstring strain, whereas Jofra Archer has been omitted from the list to give him a break after a demanding summer schedule.
Jos Buttler sidelined as Jofra Archer receives a break
A hamstring tear sustained in the recent matches against Sri Lanka has ruled Buttler out of the upcoming trip. His unavailability deprives the English side of a highly experienced top-tier white-ball batsman ahead of a demanding tour on Pakistani soil. Meanwhile, Archer’s exclusion is part of England’s ongoing strategy to monitor and regulate his physical exertion.
Following an intense summer of cricket, the speedster is being granted a period of recuperation before the next phase of the international calendar. On a positive note, Adil Rashid and Sam Curran are both set to make a comeback after overcoming their fitness issues. Rashid sat out the Sri Lanka series due to a hand injury, whereas Curran has successfully recovered from a groin strain.
Mason Crane recalled after an eight-year hiatus from international duty
Following stellar performances for Glamorgan in multiple formats this season, Mason Crane has received a surprise call-up to the ODI team. The leg-break bowler, who is yet to make his debut in this format, last featured for his country during the 2018 Ashes finale in Sydney. Given that the subcontinent pitches are projected to favor slow bowlers, Crane’s inclusion injects a valuable slow-bowling alternative into the lineup.
Uncapped youngsters James Coles and Henry Crocombe retain their spots in the limited-overs frame after being integrated into the training squads earlier this year. Meanwhile, veteran batsman Joe Root maintains his spot in the 50-over team amidst a packed playing schedule, while Harry Brook steps up to lead the squad as captain.
England’s touring squad: Harry Brook (c), Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, James Coles, Jordan Cox, Mason Crane, Henry Crocombe, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Josh Tongue.
