England has confirmed their starting XI for the first T20 International against South Africa, with some notable changes and key players returning to the lineup.
The match, which takes place on Wednesday at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, marks the beginning of a three-game series and a chance for England to bounce back from their recent ODI series defeat.
The team has opted for a new-look opening pair, with Phil Salt returning to the side after a paternity leave and joining Jos Buttler at the top of the order.
Buttler, who has been a middle-order batsman in recent T20Is, moves up to the opening position.
Following a brilliant maiden century in the final ODI, Jacob Bethell has been rewarded with a spot at number three, with captain Harry Brook, Sam Curran, and Tom Banton completing the top six.
Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith, who opened for England in their recent T20 series against the West Indies, have been rested.
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The bowling attack sees the highly anticipated return of Jofra Archer, who will lead the pace attack alongside Jamie Overton.
Sam Curran's inclusion provides a third seam-bowling option.
The spin department will be anchored by Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson, with Will Jacks and Bethell providing additional support with their part-time spin.
The full England playing XI for the first T20 against South Africa is as follows:
Phil Salt
Jos Buttler (wk)
Jacob Bethell
Harry Brook (c)
Sam Curran
Tom Banton
Will Jacks
Jamie Overton
Liam Dawson
Adil Rashid
- Jofra Archer
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