England Names Three Uncapped Players for T20I Series Opener Against Australia

The ECB announced the playing XI for the first T20I against Australia, featuring debuts for Jordan Cox, Jacob Bethell, and Jamie Overton. Philip Salt will lead the team in Jos Buttler's absence. Key players include Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, and Sam Curran, with the match scheduled at Utilita Bowl in Southampton.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) named their starting lineup on the eve of the first T20I against Australia at Utilita Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday. The team features three debutants: Jordan Cox, Jacob Bethell, and Jamie Overton. Philip Salt will serve as captain in place of the injured Jos Buttler.

Salt, known for his explosive batting, has accumulated 885 runs at a strike rate of 165.11 in 31 T20Is. He will lead the charge at the top order apart from his captaincy duties. Cox will assume wicketkeeping responsibilities, while all-rounder Liam Livingstone is set to strengthen the middle-order.

Bethell will add depth to England's middle-order and offer a spin bowling option with his slow left-arm orthodox style. Sam Curran and Jamie Overton will provide lower-order batting strength and wicket-taking abilities. England's formidable pace attack includes Jofra Archer, Saqib Mahmood, and Reece Topley, while Adil Rashid is the primary spinner.

Following the first T20I, the second match will be held on September 13 in Cardiff, with the series concluding on September 15 in Manchester. England's playing XI for the opener includes Salt, Will Jacks, Cox, Livingstone, Bethell, Curran, Overton, Archer, Rashid, Mahmood, and Topley.

(With inputs from agencies.)