KARACHI: England all-rounder Moeen Ali is poised to lead the side in the upcoming seven-match T20I series against Pakistan, scheduled to commence on September 20, English newspaper The Guardian reported.
England are likely to tour Pakistan after a gap of 17 years in September and the reports suggest that the second-ranked side will miss the services of their newly-appointed captain Jos Buttler.
Buttler, who was ruled out of the remained of The Hundred, last week is however targeting the ‘back end’ of the seven-match series in Pakistan in a bid to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia, a month later.
Following the likely absence of England’s full-time captain Buttler, Mooen, who was serving as his deputy since Eoin Morgan’s retirement, is understood to be the favourite candidate for the leadership role.
England’s star explosive batter Liam Livingstone, who is going through an ankle injury is also doubtful for the historic tour, while their key players Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes are likely to be given rest.
According to the details, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is also reviewing the rough patch of their opening batter Jason Roy and will decide about his participation in the historic T20I series.
Whereas pacers Chris Woakes and Mark Wood, will give fitness tests to make their way into the squad as they underwent knee and elbow surgeries respectively, this summer.
Reports further suggest that the ECB is also considering recruiting young players like Will Smeed and Will Jacks, while the veteran Alex Hales, is also in contention.
It is pertinent to mention here that the England T20I side will land in Pakistan on September 14 following the conclusion of The Oval Test against South Africa. The first match of the seven-match T20I series will be played at National Stadium Karachi on September 20.
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