Jos Buttler to miss at least 2 Test Matches against India as England rest multi-format players

England cricketer Jos Buttler might miss 2 Test matches against India in 2021. Owing to this, Ben Foakes might get a chance to play as a wicketkeeper for some part of the 4 match series. England is planning to rest some of its multi-format players in their tours of Sri Lanka and India. These encounters will start from early January and might continue till the end of March 2021.

England players Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes will not be a part of the 2 Tests against Sri Lanka. Jos Buttler, who is a regular starter in all 3 formats, is likely to miss some matches of the India series. Buttler’s absence would provide Ben Foakes with an opportunity to shine after being out for nearly 2 years. Jonny Bairstow has been called for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. However, as of now, Bairstow is being considered a specialist batsman only. Bairstow will bat higher in the batting order in the absence of Ben Stokes, Rory Burns, and Ollie Pope.

There will be an opportunity for Foakes at some point this winter: Ed Smith

Ed Smith is the current national selector of the England side. Smith feels that the English side has a lot of depth in the batting lineup. Hence, he would ensure that all the resources are optimally used. Smith also stated that the senior players have worked hard this year. Hence, in the upcoming tours, some of them will deservedly get some rest. Talking about Bairstow, Smith felt that it was the ideal time to bring him in. In his most recent Test match against Sri Lanka, Bairstow amassed a century. England won that series 3-0, completing a clean sweep against Sri Lanka away from home.

Bairstow has also been impressive against spin bowling, and hence Smith felt that Bairstow deserved a Test call-up against Sri Lanka. With the three regular starters absent, England might opt for Zak Crawley to open against Sri Lanka. Dan Lawrence could also be another player who makes his international debut against Sri Lanka. Ollie Pope, who is out injured, is undergoing rehabilitation. Pope might just be fit in time to make it to the squad against India.

England has 6 Test matches on their schedule for now. Prior to these matches, they will face India in a 5 match T20I series. A 3 match ODI series will also take place, after which IPL 2021 will take its course.

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