On February 22, at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, England announced their-playing XI for the opener against Australia in the Champions Trophy. Led by Jos Buttler, the team suffered an embarrassing 3-0 defeat against India earlier this month and will seek redemption in this very important tournament. There was tremendous pressure on the captain, since the team failed to qualify for the ODI World Cup semi-final and the T20 World Cup final. It was reported that he could be dropped.
However, the team management has given him an extended period, and the Champions Trophy could possibly be his last chance to prove himself as a leader. After a successful run in Test cricket, Brendon McCullum has been handed the leadership of the white-ball format as well, and it is going to be interesting to see how much of an impact the former New Zealand cricketer creates in this setup.
England would like to do well without Ben Stokes, who opted out of the tournament after suffering a hamstring injury. Apart from that, the Three Lions have really announced a balanced side, which is capable of putting up a serious challenge for the title. The ace pacer Jofra Archer would be back to full fitness, which is like a shot in the arm for the team. With Mark Wood alongside him, the two form a key role for the team in this tournament.
Interestingly, Buttler, who is arguably now among the best white-ball batters, has dropped himself down the order and will bat at six. They have promoted Jamie Smith as the keeper-batter, who is now third on the batting list. Joe Root and Harry Brook have been mentioned as number four and five, respectively.
In spite of his disappointing showings in India, Phil Salt will continue to open the batting with Ben Duckett. Liam Livingstone and Brydon Carse have been asked to finish off the game, and Adil Rashid is the sole specialist spinner for this round.
England Playing XI – Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
