Smith to bat at three in England's Champions Trophy opener

1 day ago 4
Chattythat Icon

Wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will take the gloves and bat at number three in England's Champions Trophy opener against Australia on Saturday.

Smith, 24, has recovered from a calf injury that ruled him out of the last two T20s and the entire one-day international series against India earlier this month.

Phil Salt, who had been England's first-choice wicketkeeper, remains as opener alongside Ben Duckett while Joe Root drops down to number four.

Durham's Brydon Carse also returns after a toe injury in a three-strong pace attack that also includes Mark Wood and Jofra Archer.

England XI: Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (capt), Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood

While Smith's selection is not a surprise, his promotion to number three is given he has never batted higher than five in his seven previous ODIs.

Coach Brendon McCullum is a huge admirer of Smith, who has impressed since making his Test debut under the New Zealander last July.

His selection means Liam Livingstone and Joe Root will share the responsibilities of being England's fifth bowler.

They did so in the third ODI against India in Ahmedabad last week when they returned figures of 1-104 in 13 overs.

Read Entire Article