England has announced its squad for the upcoming one-day international (ODI) series against India and the 2025 Champions Trophy, featuring the return of star batter Joe Root. However, Ben Stokes, recovering from a hamstring injury, has been left out.
Joe Root’s Comeback
Joe Root, currently ranked the number one Test batter, makes a highly anticipated return to England’s ODI squad. The 33-year-old has amassed 171 ODI caps but hasn’t featured in white-ball cricket since England’s World Cup campaign in November 2023.
Root is part of a 15-player squad that also sees the inclusion of pacer Mark Wood, back after recovering from a right elbow injury. The experienced batter aims to strengthen England’s lineup as they prepare for the challenging series in India and the prestigious Champions Trophy.
Injury Sidelines Ben Stokes
England Test captain Ben Stokes remains absent from the squad due to a hamstring injury sustained during the third Test against New Zealand earlier this month. Despite his exceptional form and leadership qualities, Stokes’ unavailability is a significant blow to the team.
England’s Road Ahead
The January-February tour includes five T20 internationals and three ODIs in India. These matches mark the beginning of England’s preparations for the Champions Trophy, set to be held in Pakistan.
The tour also signifies the start of a new era for England’s white-ball cricket under coach Brendon McCullum, who recently assumed responsibility for the limited-overs setup while retaining his role as Test coach.
Notable Omissions
Left-arm pacer Reece Topley, all-rounders Sam Curran, and Will Jacks are notable absentees from both squads. Jos Buttler will continue to lead England in both formats.
England Squads for India Tour
T20 Series Squad:
- Jos Buttler (Captain)
- Rehan Ahmed
- Jofra Archer
- Gus Atkinson
- Jacob Bethell
- Harry Brook
- Brydon Carse
- Ben Duckett
- Jamie Overton
- Jamie Smith
- Liam Livingstone
- Adil Rashid
- Saqib Mahmood
- Phil Salt
- Mark Wood
ODI Series & Champions Trophy Squad:
- Jos Buttler (Captain)
- Jofra Archer
- Gus Atkinson
- Jacob Bethell
- Harry Brook
- Brydon Carse
- Ben Duckett
- Jamie Overton
- Jamie Smith
- Liam Livingstone
- Adil Rashid
- Joe Root
- Saqib Mahmood
- Phil Salt
- Mark Wood
India Tour Schedule
T20 Series:
- 22 January – Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- 25 January – MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- 28 January – Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
- 31 January – MCA Stadium, Pune
- 2 February – Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
ODI Series:
- 6 February – VCA Stadium, Nagpur
- 9 February – Barabati Stadium, Cuttack
- 12 February – Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
A New Chapter in White-Ball Cricket
As England prepares to face India on their home turf, fans eagerly await the impact of Joe Root’s return and Brendon McCullum’s debut as white-ball coach. Despite Ben Stokes’ absence, the team boasts a mix of experienced players and rising stars, promising an exciting series.
