England’s T20 World Cup selection dilemma intensifies as Jamie Overton’s back injury remains uncertain.
Jamie Overton’s recent back complaint has cast a shadow over his chances of making England’s T20 World Cup squad. Despite enjoying a successful winter on the T20 circuit, Overton was ruled out of Surrey’s County Championship fixture against Kent and will miss the upcoming game against Warwickshire due to a back issue. Further scans are scheduled in two weeks, coinciding with the deadline for England to submit their provisional squad to the ICC on May 1.
Overton’s potential absence could pave the way for Chris Jordan’s return to the team. Jordan was omitted from the squad that faced West Indies in December but has consistently impressed with his six-hitting ability. The selection panel, led by Rob Key, will also have to address the wicketkeeper position. With the ICC’s new stop-clock and fielding penalties for slow over-rates, Jos Buttler may have to decide between captaincy and wicketkeeping duties. Phil Salt and Jonny Bairstow are alternative options for the gloves.
The ECB’s decision on whether to allow England players to remain in the IPL knockout stages, should their franchises qualify, will also affect the squad announcement. Buttler, currently in fine form for the Rajasthan Royals, is likely to miss the start of the Pakistan series on paternity leave regardless. England is expected to name their squad on Tuesday morning, with the deadline for any changes set for May 25, the day of the second T20I against Pakistan.
