England have named a 17-player squad for the T20I series against India, led by Harry Brook, with uncapped all-rounder James Coles earning a maiden call-up following strong performances for the England Lions and across domestic T20 leagues. In 71 T20 matches, Coles has scored 1,373 runs at an average of 28.60 and has also taken 53 wickets at an economy rate of 8.27.
Earlier this month, Coles further strengthened his case with an unbeaten 224 for Sussex in their County Championship match against Glamorgan in Hove. National selector Marcus North praised Coles as a standout inclusion, highlighting his consistent performances over the past 12 months across multiple formats and competitions.
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“James Coles is an exciting addition and has earned his place following his performances with the England Lions and in T20 competitions here and abroad during the past 12 months,” North said.
COX, BAKER, SAQIB RETURN
The selection reflects a blend of youth and experience, with Jordan Cox, Sonny Baker and Saqib Mahmood returning to the set-up after missing the Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this year. However, England will be without Brydon Carse and Jamie Overton, both ruled out due to injury, leading to adjustments in the team’s balance and overall depth.
Jofra Archer and Sam Curran add firepower with ball and bat, while Jos Buttler, Phil Salt and Tom Banton strengthen the wicketkeeping and top-order options. Rehan Ahmed, Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson provide spin depth, alongside all-round options Will Jacks and Jacob Bethell.
North, who’s also a former Australian cricketer, noted that the larger squad size provides greater flexibility, particularly as the series begins shortly after the conclusion of England’s Test commitments against New Zealand.
“We have selected a larger squad to accommodate for the fact that this series will begin shortly after the Test series against New Zealand is due to conclude which allows us to be flexible,” North added.
The five-match T20I series between England and India will be played across Chester-le-Street, Manchester, Nottingham, Bristol and Southampton. The series begins on July 1 and concludes on July 11 at the Utilita Bowl.
England squad for T20I series against India
Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, James Coles, Jordan Cox, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood
– Ends
