England has announced its starting XI for the first of three One Day Internationals against South Africa, with a new-look side featuring a blend of youth and experience.
We've named our XI for the 1st Metro Bank ODI tomorrow and there's a debut for Sonny Baker!
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 1, 2025
See the full XI 👇
The match, which takes place at Headingley on Tuesday, September 2, signals the start of a new era for England's white-ball team under the captaincy of Harry Brook.
The team features a number of players who have been in fantastic form, as well as a key international debut.
The full XI:
- Jamie Smith
- Ben Duckett
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook (Captain)
- Jos Buttler
- Jacob Bethell
- Will Jacks
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
- Sonny Baker
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Key Talking Points from the XI
The most significant news from the squad announcement is the debut of Sonny Baker.
The 22-year-old paceman, who has been in sensational form in The Hundred and the County Championship, will make his first appearance for England in an international match.
His inclusion alongside Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse in the bowling lineup signals a new emphasis on pace from the England selectors.
The batting lineup is a familiar one, with Jamie Smith partnering Ben Duckett at the top of the order.
Joe Root, who has been in phenomenal form this year with 604 runs in nine ODIs, returns to the side and will provide stability at number three.
He will be followed by Harry Brook, who will bat at number four and captain the side for the first time.
The team also features the return of Jofra Archer, who made his comeback to the longest format of the game in the recent Test series against India.
His return to the white-ball squad brings both pace and unpredictability, and his fitness will be closely monitored.
The squad is a good mix of youth and experience, with the likes of Adil Rashid and Jos Buttler providing a steady hand, and youngsters like Jacob Bethell and Will Jacks looking to make their mark.
This match is a great test for England, who will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing Champions Trophy earlier this year.
South Africa, who have a strong ODI record, will be a tough opponent, but with a good mix of youth and experience, England will be confident in their ability to get a result.
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