England faces a challenging start to their Champions Trophy campaign with injury concerns clouding preparations. Scheduled to face Australia in their opening match on 22 February, the team's lineup remains uncertain. Tom Banton, the leading run-scorer in the ILT20 in the United Arab Emirates with an impressive tally of 493 runs in 11 innings, is expected to play a key role. Despite having scored two centuries in the ILT20, his participation remains hopeful as he recovers from recent fitness concerns.
In a bid to shore up their batting lineup, England recalled Jamie Overton to bat at number seven for their crucial match in Cuttack. Overton, who averages 17.24 in List A cricket, will need to deliver as England strategizes to finalize their squad by the 12 February deadline. Meanwhile, Tom Banton's versatility was on display as he kept wicket during the warm-ups on Sunday morning, hinting at his potential involvement in the tournament.
The team has been grappling with multiple injury setbacks. Jamie Smith missed the last two matches of the T20 series in India and the first two ODIs due to a calf issue. His absence has been felt, and England hopes for his speedy recovery to strengthen their squad. Additionally, Jacob Bethell sustained a hamstring injury during the first one-day international against India on Thursday. As a result, Bethell was excluded from England's XI for Sunday's second ODI in Cuttack, casting doubt over his availability for the Champions Trophy.
Tom Banton's recent form adds a glimmer of hope for England. The dynamic player last featured in an ODI in 2020 but has since gained experience with 14 T20 appearances, most recently in 2022. His contributions could prove crucial for England as they navigate through these injury challenges.
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