Following a T20 series with a long-term focus on 2026, where several key players were missing, and the final match was washed out in Manchester, the upcoming five-match ODI series between England and Australia feels more immediately relevant. This series, while somewhat traditional and possibly excessive, serves as preparation for next year's Champions Trophy, with many of the multi-format stars returning to action.
Highlighting the decreasing significance of bilateral ODIs, this is only the second ODI series for both teams since their contrasting performances in the 2023 World Cup. England lost 2-1 to the West Indies in December, while Australia dominated the same opposition 3-0 in February. Can you recall the XIs from the final matches of those series? (No cheating by clicking!)
One notable absentee is Jos Buttler, who suffered a setback in his recovery from a calf injury. Harry Brook will step in as captain, a potentially significant moment given his long-term leadership potential. There will also be considerable interest in Jofra Archer, as he makes his first 50-over appearance in 18 months. His workload will be carefully managed, but it's a crucial step in his comeback.
Australia welcomes back senior players like Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, and Mitchell Starc. Alex Carey also returns, though he is now Josh Inglis' deputy in ODIs after being dropped early in last year's World Cup. Carey’s return to Lord’s next week brings an added narrative, with a significant chapter in his career having unfolded there. Meanwhile, young fast bowler Mahli Beardman, with just one professional game under his belt, has been called up as a backup player. While not officially part of the squad, an opportunity could arise if the regular fast bowlers face any fitness issues.
Mitchell Marsh, speaking about Beardman, remarked, "He's a talented young guy. Facing him in the nets, I can tell he's got potential. It’s great to see such a young player learning and growing in the team environment."
Form Guide (Last 5 Completed Matches)
- England: LWLWW
- Australia: WWWWW
Key Players to Watch: Jofra Archer and Glenn Maxwell
Jofra Archer's recovery is under close watch. His return to the 50-over format marks his first such game since March 2023, following a period where he was limited to T20 action. This match is another step in Archer’s gradual return, with hopes of him eventually regaining full fitness for Test cricket. However, his full 10-over quota may not be required right away.
On the Australian side, Glenn Maxwell will return to ODIs for the first time since the World Cup final. After suffering a severe leg injury in 2022, Maxwell continues to manage its effects. At 35, the upcoming Champions Trophy might serve as his farewell to the 50-over format, making his performances in this series even more significant.
Team News: England and Australia Line-ups
Ben Duckett will open for England for the first time in ODIs, while captain Harry Brook slots in at No. 4. Jamie Smith is set to take on wicketkeeping duties. Jofra Archer is confirmed to play the opening match. Jacob Bethell could debut, and Liam Livingstone’s bowling abilities are likely to secure him a spot, allowing Brook to manage the overs.
Probable England XI: 1 Ben Duckett, 2 Phil Salt, 3 Will Jacks, 4 Harry Brook (captain), 5 Jamie Smith (wk), 6 Liam Livingstone, 7 Jacob Bethell, 8 Brydon Carse, 9 Jofra Archer, 10 Adil Rashid, 11 Reece Topley.
Australia’s squad has been impacted by illness, with captain Mitchell Marsh missing the second T20I due to a virus. Affected players could stretch Australia’s already limited squad for the first ODI. Australia continues to seek a long-term replacement for David Warner, with Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh among the options. Josh Inglis is a doubt due to quad soreness, potentially opening the door for Alex Carey to play.
Possible Australia XI: 1 Travis Head, 2 Mitchell Marsh (captain), 3 Steven Smith, 4 Cameron Green, 5 Marnus Labuschagne, 6 Josh Inglis/Alex Carey (wk), 7 Glenn Maxwell/Matthew Short, 8 Sean Abbott, 9 Mitchell Starc/Ben Dwarshuis, 10 Adam Zampa, 11 Josh Hazlewood/Aaron Hardie.