Phil Salt sidelined? The reason behind the late change in SL vs ENG 3rd T20I
The biggest talking point ahead of the first ball was the unexpected absence of England’s explosive opener, Phil Salt. Being in sublime form, Salt’s name was the first one many expected to appear on the team sheet. However, when the captains met for the toss, it was revealed that the hard-hitting right-hander would be watching from the sidelines.
During the toss, England captain Brook confirmed the news which sparked concern among traveling fans. Beck stated: “Tonight we’re going to have a blast. It is a used field, so hopefully we will first work with the bat and then use the used field with the ball. Salt suffered a back spasm during warm-ups so he misses the match and Ben Duckett comes in. Luke Wood comes in for Archer.”
The injury appears to be a sudden setback, occurring just minutes before the game during the team’s routine physical preparations. Although back spasms can vary in severity, England management have opted for caution, likely with one eye on the grueling World Cup schedule ahead. This late shuffle sees the multifaceted Ben Ducket lined up in the opening slot, while Lucas Hout deserves a start as Jofra Sagittarius has the peace and quiet to manage his workload.
Also READ: Tom Banton steers England to victory over Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I
SL vs ENG: Playing XI of both teams
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana
England: Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (w), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Luke Wood, Adil Rashid
Also WATCH: Sam Curran scores hat-trick against Sri Lanka in T20I series opener
#ENG #3rd #T20I #Phil #Salt #playing #todays #match