England announce squad for Pakistan series, T20 World Cup

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England has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024, showcasing a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents.

Leading the pack is Jos Buttler, who will captain the side, supported by experienced hands like Moeen Ali, Chris Jordan, and Adil Rashid, known for their all-round prowess. Notably, the return of fast bowler Jofra Archer, recuperated from a prolonged elbow injury, bolsters England's bowling arsenal.

In addition to the familiar faces, the squad introduces fresh blood with the inclusion of promising players such as Harry Brook, Sam Curran, and Mark Wood. Among the rookies is Tom Hartley, a left-arm spinning all-rounder yet to make his international debut, adding depth to the squad's spin options.

Rob Key, England's men's managing director, informed the players chosen for the World Cup squad that they were selected and informed those in the IPL that they won't be available for the playoffs due to a clash with England's series against Pakistan.

The individuals who are part of both England's World Cup team and the IPL include Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, and Liam Livingstone, all playing for Punjab Kings; Will Jacks and Reece Topley from Royal Challengers Bengaluru; Jos Buttler representing Rajasthan Royals; Phil Salt with Kolkata Knight Riders, and Moeen Ali from Chennai Super Kings.

Buttler's leadership role played a pivotal role in the decision-making process, as he expressed his eagerness to prepare for the World Cup during the series against Pakistan.

"You can't just call people back for no reasons: there are protections. Without injury or England commitments, we couldn't say to Phil Salt, for example, come back and have a rest for the next 15 days. But there is a window just before an England series when you can bring players back for England duty or injury," Key said.

"I asked him [Buttler] very early on in the piece and said, 'Look, as England captain, you're obviously going to have this series against Pakistan. How do you see it?' And straightaway, he said, 'No, no, I want to come back and start getting ready for the World Cup in that series that's just before it'” he added.

It is worth noting that the same squad will participate in a four-match T20I series against Pakistan starting on May 22. Players currently playing in the Indian Premier League will return in time for the series.

England squad for Pakistan series and T20 World Cup 2024:

Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonathan Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, Mark Wood