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England is taking precautions to protect its T20 World Cup campaign by adding fast bowlers Saqib Mahmood and Olly Stone to their provisional squad. This move is designed to provide injury cover for key players currently competing in the high-intensity Indian Premier League (IPL).
With several members of the T20 squad, including key bowlers, participating in the IPL, England's management is wary of potential fitness issues arising before the World Cup begins in June. The inclusion of Mahmood and Stone ensures that experienced replacements are ready to step in if needed. This decision is also influenced by the long-term absence of Jofra Archer, which already puts a strain on England's pace-bowling resources.
Neither Mahmood nor Stone has been added to the official 15-man squad at this stage. Instead, they will join the team's pre-tournament camp and may feature in the upcoming T20 series against Pakistan, which serves as a final warm-up.
Saqib Mahmood has impressed with his recent performances for Yorkshire and has prior experience with the England setup. Similarly, Olly Stone has represented England in the past and is in good form with Nottinghamshire.
Team officials, led by managing director Rob Key and coach Matthew Mott, have until May 25 to submit the final, unchangeable 15-man squad to the International Cricket Council (ICC). This strategic addition of Mahmood and Stone provides England with crucial depth and flexibility as they finalize their preparations for the tournament.
The provisional 15-man squad remains:
Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, Mark Wood.
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