England have unveiled their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India, with wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith the notable omission and a surprise inclusion for injured paceman Jofra Archer.
Smith's Omission and Archer's Gamble
The selectors have made a bold call by leaving out Jamie Smith following a difficult Ashes series in Australia, where he averaged just 19.85 with the bat. This comes despite a blistering 60 from 26 balls in his last T20 outing against the West Indies in June.
In a significant gamble, Jofra Archer has been named in the 16-man World Cup squad. The fast bowler is currently recovering from a left side strain sustained during the Ashes and is expected to be sidelined for three to six weeks. His inclusion is conditional on a full recovery in time for the tournament, which begins on February 8.
Tongue's Rise and Carse on Standby
Uncapped seamer Josh Tongue earns a remarkable call-up on the back of impressive performances in the Ashes Tests in Adelaide and Melbourne. Although he has no white-ball experience for England, he finished as the top wicket-taker in last season's Hundred, taking 14 wickets in six games.
As insurance for Archer's fitness, Brydon Carse will travel with the squad for the preceding bilateral tour of Sri Lanka. He is designated as the direct replacement should Archer suffer any setbacks in his recovery.
Duckett Retained and Brook to Lead
Ben Duckett retains his place despite a challenging tour of Australia, where his form wavered and he faced scrutiny after an appearance in a social media clip. The management believe his skills against spin bowling will be valuable on the subcontinent.
Harry Brook will captain the side in his first World Cup campaign, supported by a core of experienced players including former captain Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, and Adil Rashid. The squad also features all-rounder Jamie Overton, leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed, and batter Tom Banton.
England have been drawn in Group C alongside Bangladesh, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal. Managing director Rob Key and head coach Brendon McCullum will be hoping for a strong performance to stabilise their positions after the Ashes defeat.
England T20 World Cup Squad: H Brook (c), R Ahmed, J Archer (WC only), T Banton, J Bethell, J Buttler, B Carse (SL only), S Curran, L Dawson, B Duckett, W Jacks, J Overton, A Rashid, P Salt, J Tongue, L Wood.
