England’s white-ball plans for the upcoming ODI tri-series in Pakistan have been hit by the absences of key players Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer. Buttler is currently recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during the second ODI against Sri Lanka, while Archer has been granted a rest period to manage his significant workload following a demanding domestic summer.
In a boost for the squad, legspinner Adil Rashid has been cleared to return to the 16-member side after missing the recent 2-1 series victory over Sri Lanka due to a hand injury. Sam Curran is also back in the mix, having fully recovered from a groin issue that previously sidelined him. National Selector Marcus North confirmed these personnel changes, emphasizing the importance of testing the squad in varied international conditions during this series.
The selection includes a recall for Glamorgan leg-spinner Mason Crane, who makes his return to the international frame eight years after his last appearance. Crane, who holds two T20I caps and previously featured in the 2018 Sydney Ashes Test, has been rewarded for his consistent domestic performances. North described the veteran as a high-class bowler who deserves another opportunity at the international level. Additionally, uncapped Sussex players James Coles and Henry Crocombe remain in the setup following their involvement in white-ball squads earlier this summer.
The tournament, which also features Sri Lanka, will be hosted across Rawalpindi and Lahore. The teams are scheduled to compete in a double round-robin format, with the top two sides progressing to the final. The championship decider is set to take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on October 31.
England Squad: Harry Brook (captain), 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, and Josh Tongue.
