England Announce Playing XI for 1st T20I vs New Zealand, In-Form Jordan Cox Retained
The England cricket team defeated Ireland 2-0 in a three-match series last month. Now, the England team is ready to face the challenge of New Zealand. The three-match T20I series will begin on October 18th on New Zealand soil. The first T20I match between the two teams will be played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.
With only two days left for the match, England announced their playing XI on October 16th. Four wicketkeepers included in the team. The most interesting feature of the squad announced by England for the first T20I is the inclusion of four wicketkeeping options. While Jos Buttler is expected to be the wicketkeeper-batsman, other wicketkeeper-batsmen such as Phil Salt, Tom Banton, and Jordan Cox are also in the squad.
Back in action on Saturday ⏳
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 16, 2025
Our XI for the first IT20 against @BLACKCAPS 💪 pic.twitter.com/pAqOKorsOV
Additionally, Jacob Bethell and captain Harry Brook will bolster the team's batting order. Harry Brooke replaced Jos Buttler as England's limited-overs captain earlier this year. Now, Harry's captaincy will face a real and stern test in New Zealand.
In terms of all-rounders, England has benched Jamie Overton, while including Brydon Carse and Sam Curran. In the spin department, England has selected three options. Adil Rashid will be the main spinner, supported by left-arm spinner Liam Dawson. Jacob Bethell can also bowl if needed. Luke Wood will lead the fast bowling, while Sonny Baker has been left out of the opening match this time.
England Playing XI (1st T20I vs New Zealand):
Philip Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (c), Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Jordan Cox, Liam Dawson, Brydon Carse, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood
New Zealand vs England T20I Series Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 1st T20I | 18 October | Hagley Oval, Christchurch |
| 2nd T20I | 20 October | Hagley Oval, Christchurch |
| 3rd T20I | 23 October | Eden Park, Auckland |