Jamie Smith Keeps Spot in England XI for 3rd T20 vs India
Jamie Smith has been retained in an unchanged England team for the third T20 against India in Rajkot on Tuesday. Smith impressed on his T20 international debut during Saturday’s two-wicket defeat in the second match of the series, scoring 22 runs from 12 balls. He replaced all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who missed out due to illness but was fit enough to train on Monday. England trails 2-0 in the five-match series.
Despite being 2-0 down, fast bowler Mark Wood remains optimistic. “You’ve got to believe, haven’t you? There are three games to play, three chances of a win,” said Wood. The 35-year-old returned to action after recovering from a stress fracture in his elbow, having been sidelined since August. Wood has bowled 5.5 overs so far in the series, taking one wicket and conceding runs at an economy rate of 8.83 per over.
Wood acknowledged his performance had been a bit inconsistent, stating, “I’ve felt a little bit ‘hitty-missy’. My pace is up there, but maybe my accuracy hasn’t been quite where I wanted it.” Despite the challenge, he remains hopeful, adding, “When I haven’t played since August, that’s pretty much expected. Hopefully, the more I play, the better I get.”
The England squad for the third T20 includes: Ben Duckett, Phil Salt (wicketkeeper), Jos Buttler (captain), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Smith, Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid and Mark Wood. England will be looking to bounce back and get their first win in the series against India.
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