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England rest Archer, Atkinson, Tongue and Baker for Australia T20Is

England have made significant adjustments to their T20I squad ahead of their upcoming series against Australia, resting key fast bowlers Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Sonny Baker. The decision comes as England prioritize their workload management, with the four bowlers set to join the ODI squad for the three-match series in Australia.

Archer and Jacob Bethell, recovering from a knee injury, will instead travel to Pakistan for an ODI tri-series, replacing James Coles and Mason Crane in the Australia ODIs. The T20I squad also sees Phil Salt returning from injury to replace the sidelined Jos Buttler, while Sam Curran makes his comeback from a groin issue.

Luke Wood has been recalled despite losing his central contract, and uncapped players Thomas Rew and Eddie Jack earn their first England call-ups, alongside potential T20I debutants James Coles and Henry Crocombe.

The rest reflects England’s focus on Test cricket and ODIs over the next year, with the Ashes and the World Cup looming. Archer and the fast bowlers will travel early to South Africa to prepare for the Test series, working with new bowling coach Eric Simons.

Saqib Mahmood remains out of both squads due to injury, while Jamie Overton is the sole retained fast bowler from the recent Sri Lanka series victory. England’s strategy underscores their long-term planning ahead of major tournaments, balancing immediate T20I commitments with future priorities.

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