Injured Jos Buttler to miss Australia T20Is; Salt named captain
England's limited-overs skipper, Jos Buttler, has been ruled out of their impending T20I series against Australia due to a right calf injury. This setback could also see him miss the subsequent five-match ODI series. Notably, Buttler suffered this injury in July while preparing for the men's Hundred tournament, which led to his withdrawal from that competition as well. The captaincy responsibilities for the T20Is will now be shouldered by Phil Salt.
Injury woes; Salt's new role
Buttler had planned to return for Lancashire's Vitality Blast quarter-final. However, a further aggravation of his injury has put his participation in the T20I series against Australia, starting September 11, in doubt. Salt, who previously stepped in as captain for Manchester Originals during the Hundred tournament, will now lead England in the T20Is against Australia.
Potential leaders for ODI series and squad changes
As per an ESPNcricinfo report, Harry Brook, who served as Ollie Pope's deputy during the Sri Lanka Test series, is tipped to lead in ODIs against Australia, starting September 19. Meanwhile, Surrey all-rounder Jamie Overton has been added to the T20I squad as a replacement for Buttler. Jordan Cox from the Test squad has also been included in the ODI team as cover.
England hope for Buttler's return
Despite Buttler's injury, England remains hopeful that he can participate in some part of the ODI series against Australia. This development comes as the team is transitioning toward a younger core following their underwhelming run in the 2023 ODI and 2024 T20 World Cups. Brendon McCullum was recently announced as England's all-format coach after the departure of Matthew Mott.
