England’s all-rounder Jamie Smith opened the batting for the team’s first ODI game against West Indies on Thursday, May 29, at Birmingham. This marked his second ODI match, with his first dating back to 2023. 

Smith’s selection comes as England looks to test new talent at the top order. He has performed well with his form in domestic games, thanks to his steady batting and quick scoring. His role as opener is key in setting the tone early in the innings.

The match also marked a big moment for batter Harry Brook. He is leading the team for the first time in an ODI after Jos Buttler stepped down from the role earlier this year. His captaincy debut is also seen as a fresh step in England’s white-ball plans.

The squad’s six-match ODI series against West Indies is set until Tuesday, June 10 in Southampton, England.

Check out more cricket news here

England announced their ODI and T20I squads for the women’s white-ball series against the West Indies, set to begin on Wednesday, May 21. Star spinner Sophie Ecclestone is not included, as she is still recovering from a knee injury in March.

Ecclestone did play for Lancashire recently, but head coach Charlotte Edwards said she is ‘not quite at 100% yet� In her place, fast bowler Issy Wong returns to the T20 squad, while Emily Arlott earns her first senior team call-up in both formats.

The England Women’s squad is led by Nat Sciver-Brunt, marking her first home series as full-time captain. Other names on the list include Tammy Beaumont, Linsey Smith, and Alice Davidson-Richards, who all bring strong form from domestic games.

England will play three ODIs and three T20Is against the West Indies until Saturday, June 7.

Check out more cricket news here