England have decided to strengthen their batting depth for their upcoming clash against the West Indies on Wednesday, February 11, following a near-collapse against Nepal. The two-time champions have brought in all-rounder Jamie Overton for the Mumbai encounter at Wankhede Stadium, replacing seamer Luke Wood.
England were pushed to the limit by Nepal at Eden Gardens on Sunday, February 8, as the underdogs nearly chased down the target in a thrilling contest. It was only thanks to half-centuries from Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook, followed by a late cameo from Will Jacks, that England managed to secure a narrow victory.
Luke Wood had an expensive spell, conceding 31 runs in three overs against Nepal, but he held his nerve in the 19th over to help England edge closer to the win.
“England have named their XI for the group match of the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup against West Indies at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on Wednesday (13.30 GMT). Surrey all-rounder Jamie Overton comes in for Lancashire seamer Luke Wood,” the ECB said in a statement.
Overton featured in all three T20Is against Sri Lanka in the lead-up to the tournament, but he struggled to make a major impact. The all-rounder has played 18 T20Is, taking 17 wickets at an average of 19.23. England will be looking for Jofra Archer to step up after an inconsistent opening performance.
With the bat, Overton has scored only 56 runs at an average of 8. England will aim to build on their momentum as they take on a West Indies side that began the tournament with a strong 35-run win over Scotland.
England’s Playing XI vs West Indies
Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (WK), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (C), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid
