Harry Brook to make ODI captaincy debut as Jamie Smith set to open for England against West Indies

The England Cricket Team has announced its playing XI for the first ODI against the West Indies. This match will mark Harry Brook’s debut as full-time captain after being appointed the white-ball skipper of the 2019 World Cup-winning side. As for England’s lineup, Ben Duckett retains his spot at the top of the order but will have a new opening partner. Wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith has been promoted to open the innings for the first time in his ODI career. Additionally, Jos Buttler will take up wicketkeeping duties for the side.

In terms of injuries, star pacer Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the series after sustaining a thumb injury during IPL 2025 while playing for the Rajasthan Royals. Gus Atkinson, who impressed during the Test series win over Zimbabwe, is also unavailable due to a hamstring issue. Luke Wood has been named as Archer’s replacement, but no substitute has been announced for Atkinson. With both bowlers sidelined, the pace attack will be led by Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, and Saqib Mahmood.

England will host the West Indies in a three-match ODI series, with the opening fixture scheduled for Thursday, May 29, at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The second and third ODIs will take place on June 1 and 3 in Cardiff and London, respectively.

England playing XI for the first ODI vs West Indies: Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith, Joe Root, Harry Brook (captain), Jos Buttler (wicketkeeper), Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid.