After beating Ireland 2-0 last month, England have an exciting tour of New Zealand in their way. The Three Lions are set to feature across three T20Is and as many one-day internationals as the white-ball season begins in Oceania. With the first T20 international set to commence on October 18, England have continued with their habit of announcing their playing XI a couple of days prior.
England have named their starting lineup for the opening T20I at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Interestingly, they have included as many as four wicket-keeping options. While Jos Buttler is most likely to actually don the gloves, England have powerpacked opener in Phil Salt. Tom Banton and Jordan Cox are the other glovesmen in the team. Meanwhile, Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook will complete the batting group.
As far as all-rounders are concerned, England have kept Jamie Overton on the bench, with Brydon Carse and Sam Curran included. This time, England have gone with three spin-bowling options too. Adil Rashid is the tormentor with the ball and will have the support of left-arm spinner Liam Dawson. Bethell can roll his arm oer as well. Meanwhile, T20I specialist Luke Wood has kept Sonny Baker on the bench.
England Playing XI vs New Zealand – 1st T20I
- Phil Salt
- Jos Buttler
- Jacob Bethell
- Harry Brook (c)
- Tom Banton
- Sam Curran
- Jordan Cox
- Brydon Carse
- Liam Dawson
- Adil Rashid
- Luke Wood
New Zealand vs England T20I series schedule
| Fixture | Date | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NZ vs ENG, 1st T20I | Oct 18, Sat | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 11:45 AM |
| NZ vs ENG, 2nd T20I | Oct 20, Mon | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 11:45 AM |
| NZ vs ENG, 3rd T20I | Oct 23, Thu | Eden Park, Auckland | 11:45 AM |
