In an unusual move, England has announced their playing XI two days in advance for their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Australia in Lahore on Saturday. The decision, which is rarely seen in high-stakes tournaments, has raised eyebrows among cricket fans and experts.
Key Inclusions in England’s XI
- Jamie Smith makes his return to the squad and will bat at No. 3 while also taking up wicketkeeping duties.
- Jofra Archer, who has struggled with injuries over the past year, has been included in the pace attack, alongside Mark Wood and Brydon Carse.
- Adil Rashid is the lone specialist spinner in the lineup, while Liam Livingstone provides an all-round option.
England’s Playing XI vs Australia
- Phil Salt
- Ben Duckett
- Jamie Smith (WK)
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jos Buttler (C)
- Liam Livingstone
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
- Mark Wood
A rare move in tournament cricket
Most teams refrain from announcing their playing XI until the toss on match day to maintain strategic flexibility. However, England has developed a recent trend of revealing their playing XI early across formats, continuing this approach for their Champions Trophy opener.
With Australia’s squad yet to be revealed, England’s decision to disclose their lineup so early could either be a show of confidence or a calculated move to unsettle their opponents.
All eyes will now be on Lahore, as the defending champions Australia take on a well-prepared England side in what promises to be a high-voltage clash on Saturday.