Jofra Archer Makes England Comeback in Sri Lanka T20 Opener
Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been confirmed in England's team to face Sri Lanka in the first T20 match on Thursday, marking his long-awaited return to international cricket after recovering from injury. The 30-year-old seamer, who missed the final two Tests of England's 4-1 Ashes defeat due to a side strain, will make his competitive comeback in Kandy.
From Ashes Setback to T20 Return
Archer's inclusion comes as something of a surprise, given he was not initially named in the squad for the three-match T20 series against Sri Lanka. The injury had ruled him out of England's Ashes campaign earlier this year, with medical staff carefully managing his rehabilitation. Many had expected his return to be delayed until the T20 World Cup, which begins for England against Nepal on February 8, but selectors have fast-tracked his comeback for this series.
The decision to include Archer demonstrates England's confidence in his fitness and their desire to have him match-ready for the upcoming global tournament. He joins fellow seam-bowling options Jamie Overton and Sam Curran in the attack, with England continuing to field a strong contingent of spin bowlers as part of their tactical approach.
Team Changes and Selection Decisions
England's team for the series opener shows several notable selections and omissions. Ben Duckett misses out on the first T20 after sustaining a bruised right index finger during England's series-clinching victory in the third ODI in Colombo on Tuesday. Duckett, who hasn't played a T20 for England since last summer's series against the West Indies, suffered the injury while taking a catch in the deep.
In the batting lineup, Jos Buttler will open the innings on what marks his record-equalling 401st appearance in an England shirt, a significant milestone for the experienced wicketkeeper-batsman. Tom Banton is slated to bat at number four, providing middle-order stability alongside captain Harry Brook.
Full England Team for Kandy Clash
The complete England team selected to face Sri Lanka in the first T20 at Kandy is:
- Phil Salt
- Jos Buttler (wicketkeeper)
- Jacob Bethell
- Tom Banton
- Harry Brook (captain)
- Sam Curran
- Will Jacks
- Jamie Overton
- Liam Dawson
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
This balanced side combines explosive batting power with varied bowling options, featuring both pace and spin threats. Archer's return adds significant firepower to England's attack, providing captain Harry Brook with additional tactical flexibility as they seek to start the series positively against Sri Lanka.
