England’s T20 World Cup squad selection faces a dilemma as Jamie Overton’s back injury casts doubt over his availability. The Surrey allrounder, who has impressed as a short-format allrounder, was expected to receive his maiden T20I call-up. However, an inconclusive scan has left his injury status uncertain.
Overton’s absence from Surrey’s recent County Championship fixtures has raised concerns. He is scheduled for another scan in two weeks, but England’s provisional squad for the T20 World Cup must be submitted by May 1.
The selection panel, led by Rob Key, will meet soon to finalize the 15-man squad. Ben Duckett is a contender for the spare batter role, while Tom Hartley is likely to be the second spinner ahead of Rehan Ahmed.
Jofra Archer is expected to be included in the provisional squad and given a chance to prove his fitness against Pakistan. Chris Jordan, who was omitted from the squad that lost to West Indies in December, could also be recalled due to Overton’s injury.
The identity of England’s wicketkeeper is another topic for discussion. Jos Buttler’s captaincy duties may make it challenging for him to keep wicket, especially with the ICC’s new fielding penalties for slow over-rates. Phil Salt and Jonny Bairstow are potential alternatives.
The ECB has not yet clarified whether England players will be allowed to participate in the IPL knockout stages if their franchises qualify. This could impact the availability of players like Buttler for the start of the Pakistan series.
England’s squad announcement is expected on Tuesday morning. They have until May 25 to make changes, but they will aim to avoid a repeat of last year’s World Cup debacle when Harry Brook was added to the squad at the last minute.
