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England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Thursday, February 20 announced their playing XI for the much-awaited Champions Trophy 2025 clash against Australia, scheduled to be played on Saturday, February 22 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. While the Jos Buttler-led side are coming into the ICC tournament after a 0-3 drubbing against India, their rivals Australia are also coming after a 0-2 loss against Sri Lanka.
Speaking of the squad, while Buttler will continue to take charge at the helm, the Three Lions confirmed that Jamie Smith will make his return after missing ODI series against India. He will return to keep the wickets after Phil Salt was seen donning the gloves in the three-match ODI series.
Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and Mark Wood picked as seamers
England have named a well-balanced squad that has the potential to challenge for the title. Ace pacer Jofra Archer is completely fit, boasting the English side’s pace attack and will be seen pairing up with Mark Wood and Brydon Carse. On the other hand, Adil Rashid is the lone spinner in the bowling attack.
Furthermore, Phil Salt and Ben Duckett will continue to open for the side while Jamie Smith will be seen playing at number three. Jos Buttler will be seen dropping himself down the order to number six.
England’s Playing XI vs Australia
Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
