The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has dealt a significant blow to their T20I campaign against Australia, announcing that captain Jos Buttler has been ruled out of the series due to a calf injury. The three-match T20I series between England and Australia is slated to start from September 11.
Jos Buttler ruled out of T20I against Australia
This setback not only deprives the team of their talismanic leader but also raises doubts about his availability for the upcoming ODI series against the same opponents. In light of Buttler's absence, the ECB has entrusted the leadership duties to talented opener Phil Salt. To fill the void left by the injured captain, all-rounder Jamie Overton has been brought into the T20I squad as a replacement. As for the ODI series, the situation remains uncertain regarding Buttler's participation. If he is unable to recover in time, reports suggest that young batting sensation Harry Brook could take over the captaincy. To provide additional cover for the potential leadership role, Jordan Cox has been added to the ODI squad.
It was in the T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal against India, where Buttler was last seen in action. England's white-ball captain's last appearance on the field saw him score 23 runs before his injury forced him out of the tournament. In July, while preparing for the Hundred 2024, Buttler suffered a calf injury that ruled him out of the entire competition. This marked his third such injury in the past four years, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by this recurring issue. Initial plans for Buttler's comeback involved playing for Lancashire in the Vitality Blast quarter-final against Sussex. However, these plans were scrapped due to the persistent nature of his injury. The aggravated calf injury could potentially keep Buttler out for the remainder of the summer. However, the England team management remains optimistic about his recovery and hopes to see him return to action for the ODI series against Australia.
Brendon McCullum takes over as Head Coach
Buttler faced intense scrutiny following the team's disappointing performances in the ODI World Cup 2023 and T20 World Cup 2024. Rumors circulated about his potential sacking, but he managed to retain his position, unlike white-ball head coach Matthew Mott, who was removed from his role. Former New Zealand superstar Brendon McCullum has been appointed as the new white-ball head coach for England. This means he will oversee both the red-ball and white-ball teams, consolidating his role within the English cricket setup. McCullum's tenure is set to begin in January, with Marcus Trescothick serving as interim head coach for the white-ball teams during the interim period. The T20I series between England and Australia will take place on September 11, 13, and 15 at Utilita Bowl, Sophia Gardens, and Emirates Old Trafford, respectively. The ODI series will follow, with matches scheduled for September 19, 21, 24, 27, and 29 at Trent Bridge, Headingley, Seat Unique Riverside, Lord's, and Seat Unique Stadium.
England squad for T20Is against Australia:
Phil Salt (c), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Josh Hull, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Saqib Mahmood, Dan Mousley, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Reece Topley, John Turner
England squad for ODIs against Australia:
Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, Reece Topley, John Turner.
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