The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the 16-member squad for the home T20I series against Sri Lanka starting from June 23. England have recalled experienced all-rounders Chris Woakes and David Willey along with left-arm spinner Liam Dawson for their three-match T20 series against Sri Lanka.
Chris Woakes who is one of the important and regular players in the England ODI squad made his return to the squad almost after 6 years. Chris Woakes played his last T20 International against Pakistan in November 2015.
While left-arm pacer David Willey is making his comeback after 2 years, he last represented England in the T20I in May 2019. Left-arm spinner Liam Dawson has not played any T20I match since 2018.
All-rounder Ben Stokes and fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Reece Topley were not considered for the selection as they all are recovering from the fractured finger, right elbow, and side strain respectively.
Speaking at the announcement England Head coach Chris Silverwood said, “With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, this summer is about perfecting our team and continuing to progress on the field. We want to approach every series with an influx of players aiming to win every match and giving us the best preparation as we get closer to the tournament.”
“With several high-profile players missing through injury, it allows me to look at some of our experienced players who have not featured at this level for some time. The likes of Chris Woakes and David Willey are very experienced cricketers, and to have them both in the mix is exciting and shows the depth of squad we have available,” he said.
“I want our team to play an attacking form of the game. I hope we can continue to excite the England fans with our approach,” he concluded.
England squad: Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Billings, Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, David Willey, Chris Woakes and Mark Wood.
England Vs Sri Lanka T20I Series Schedule
- 1st T20I: June 23 – Sophia Gardens, Cardiff.
- 2nd T20I: June 24 – Sophia Gardens, Cardiff.
- 3rd T20I: June 26 – Hampshire Bowl, Southampton.
