England have revealed their provisional squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and the announcement has sparked immediate debate. While pace spearhead Jofra Archer has been included despite ongoing fitness issues, wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith has been dropped entirely from the limited-overs setup, signalling a decisive shift in England’s white-ball planning ahead of the global event in India and Sri Lanka.
Jofra Archer backed despite Ashes setback
Archer’s inclusion is the headline decision, especially after a left side strain forced him out of the Ashes following the third Test. Despite the injury, England’s management has shown faith in his match-winning ability, shaped by his standout performances earlier in the series. Before being sidelined, Archer claimed nine wickets at an average of 27.11, including a five-wicket haul in Adelaide, and even contributed valuable runs with the bat.
The fast bowler left Australia on Boxing Day and is currently rehabilitating in Barbados under the supervision of the England and Wales Cricket Board’s medical staff. While he will miss the upcoming ODI and T20I tour of Sri Lanka starting January 22, England expect him to be fully fit in time to rejoin the squad in India ahead of their opening Group C match against Nepal in Mumbai on February 8.
Josh Tongue rewarded for red-hot form
Another talking point is the inclusion of Josh Tongue, who is uncapped in international limited-overs cricket. Head coach Brendon McCullum and white-ball captain Harry Brook view Tongue as a strike bowler capable of exploiting the flatter pitches expected in the subcontinent.
Though relatively inexperienced in T20s, Tongue’s recent performances have been hard to ignore. He finished as the leading wicket-taker in this year’s men’s Hundred and impressed during the Ashes, highlighted by a match-winning five-for at the MCG that earned him Player of the Match honours in England’s historic Test victory.
Jamie Smith axed after failed experiment
The most significant omission is Smith, who has been dropped from both the T20I and ODI plans. England’s experiment of pushing Smith to the top of the order has not delivered the desired returns, prompting selectors to move on ahead of a demanding World Cup campaign.
In contrast, Ben Duckett has been recalled after missing the T20Is in New Zealand, while Will Jacks returns following his absence from the same tour. Zak Crawley also finds his way back into the ODI setup, aiming to add to his limited experience in the 50-over format.
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Injuries and omissions shape England’s plans
England have also been forced into tough calls due to injuries. Jordan Cox misses out, while seamer Saqib Mahmood continues his recovery from a knee issue that required surgery at the end of the 2025 home season. Brydon Carse will cover Archer’s absence during the Sri Lanka tour before the pace leader rejoins the World Cup group.
With a blend of proven stars and bold selections, England’s provisional squad reflects a clear intent to reclaim dominance in T20 cricket. However, Archer’s fitness and the gamble on Tongue could ultimately define whether this squad delivers on the biggest stage in 2026.
England squad for T20s in Sri Lanka and World Cup: Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood.
England squad for ODIs in Sri Lanka: Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Luke Wood.
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