England have announced their squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and Somerset batter Tom Banton has emerged as one of the notable inclusions. The selection has also brought tough decisions, with wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith dropped from the squad, while injured pace bowler Jofra Archer and uncapped fast bowler Josh Tongue have been named.
Jamie Smith Dropped After Difficult Ashes Tour
Jamie Smith’s omission has drawn attention, especially given his recent white-ball form. The Surrey wicketkeeper-batter played his last T20 international against the West Indies in June, where he struck an impressive 60 off just 26 balls. However, he was later rested due to a heavy workload following series against South Africa and Ireland.
Selectors appear to have weighed Smith’s struggles during the Ashes in Australia. He averaged just 19.85 with the bat and faced criticism for some unconvincing moments behind the stumps. While Test cricket is not the primary benchmark for a T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India, Smith’s dip in confidence and form likely influenced the decision to leave him out entirely.
Banton, Tongue, and Archer Strengthen the Squad
Tom Banton’s inclusion rewards his consistent performances in domestic white-ball cricket. The Somerset star has remained a dynamic option at the top of the order and offers flexibility with his aggressive batting style, which suits subcontinent conditions.
Josh Tongue’s rise has been rapid. Although uncapped in white-ball internationals, the fast bowler impressed during the Ashes Tests in Adelaide and Melbourne. He also finished as the leading wicket-taker in last season’s Hundred, claiming 14 wickets in just six matches. His T20 strike rate of one wicket every 12.5 balls made a strong case for selection.
Jofra Archer has been included despite recovering from a left-side strain. He is expected to return within three to six weeks. His availability remains tight, with England’s first World Cup group match scheduled for February 8. Brydon Carse has effectively been named as Archer’s cover and will travel for the Sri Lanka tour ahead of the tournament.
Leadership and Core Group Remain Intact
Harry Brook will lead England in his first World Cup as captain. He is supported by a familiar core that includes Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Sam Curran, Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, Luke Wood, and Jacob Bethell. Ben Duckett has retained his place despite enduring a demanding Ashes tour and off-field scrutiny. Management believe his skill against spin will be valuable on Asian pitches.
Zak Crawley has been named in the ODI squad for Sri Lanka, despite limited recent List A cricket. Rehan Ahmed, Jamie Overton, and leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed also feature across formats. Kent batter Jordan Cox narrowly missed out and is expected to be first reserve.
England Eye Strong Tournament Showing
England have been drawn in Group C alongside Bangladesh, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal. Managing director Rob Key and head coach Brendon McCullum are keen for a strong performance to rebuild momentum following the Ashes defeat. With a blend of experience, emerging talent, and calculated risks, England will hope the squad can deliver in challenging subcontinent conditions.
England T20 Squad (Sri Lanka tour and World Cup):
Harry Brook (c), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood.
England ODI Squad vs Sri Lanka:
Harry Brook (c), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Luke Wood.
