The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced the squads for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies, marking the start of a new era under captain Harry Brook. The series, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is, kicks off on May 29 and promises high-octane cricket as both sides look to build momentum ahead of future ICC events.
Harry Brook Takes Charge: A New Captain at the Helm
For the first time, Harry Brook will lead England’s men’s team in both formats, succeeding Jos Buttler after England’s early Champions Trophy exit. Brook’s appointment signals a fresh approach, with selectors opting for a blend of youth and experience in both squads.
England ODI Squad: Youth Meets Experience
England’s 15-man ODI squad features several returning faces and some exciting young talent. Notable inclusions are:
Harry Brook (C), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Matthew Potts, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jamie Smith
Key talking points:
- Jofra Archer returns to the ODI squad, adding firepower to the pace attack.
- Tom Hartley, last seen in ODIs against Ireland, is back to bolster the spin department.
- Will Jacks, in superb form during IPL 2025, is named in both squads, rewarding his consistency.
England T20I Squad: Fresh Faces and Welcome Returns
The T20I squad also sees a mix of familiar and new names:
Harry Brook (C), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Matthew Potts, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Luke Wood
Noteworthy selections:
- Liam Dawson returns for the first time since September 2022, bringing all-round options and left-arm spin.
- Luke Wood rejoins the T20I setup after a strong domestic season.
- Phil Salt is back in T20Is but misses out on the ODI squad.
Series Schedule: Dates and Venues
ODI Series:
May 29 – Edgbaston, Birmingham
June 1 – Sophia Gardens, Cardiff
June 3 – Kia Oval, London
T20I Series:
June 6 – Riverside, Durham
June 8 – County Ground, Bristol
June 10 – The Rose Bowl, Southampton
Selection Headlines and IPL Clashes
The squad announcement comes amid the rescheduled IPL 2025 final stages, potentially affecting the availability of stars like Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Jacob Bethell, and Jamie Overton, who are all involved in both competitions. The selectors have kept faith in their IPL form, but their participation might hinge on IPL commitments.
Significant omissions include Liam Livingstone, who misses out on both squads, and Phil Salt, who is only included for T20Is. The selection panel has clearly prioritized current form and fitness, with a focus on building a versatile squad for the future.
Conclusion
England’s white-ball squads for the West Indies series reflect a bold new direction under Harry Brook’s leadership. With a blend of returning stars and emerging talent, the stage is set for an exciting summer of cricket. Fans will be eager to see how this new-look England side fares against a competitive West Indies outfit as preparations for upcoming global tournaments intensify.
FAQs
1. Who is England’s captain for the West Indies white-ball series?
Harry Brook will captain both the ODI and T20I squads, marking his first series as England’s full-time white-ball skipper.
2. Which players have returned to the England squads?
Jofra Archer, Tom Hartley, Liam Dawson, and Luke Wood are among the notable returnees to the ODI and T20I squads.
3. When does the England vs West Indies white-ball series start?
The series begins with the first ODI on May 29, 2025, at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
4. Are any England players missing due to IPL commitments?
Yes, several players like Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Jacob Bethell, and Jamie Overton may miss part of the series if their IPL teams reach the final stages.
5. Why was Harry Brook appointed as captain?
Brook replaced Jos Buttler following England’s early exit from the 2025 Champions Trophy, with selectors looking to inject fresh leadership and ideas into the team.