Jos Buttler Out of West Indies ODI Series Due to Injury Setback
LONDON, England (AFP) — In a blow to England’s cricket team, white-ball captain Jos Buttler has been ruled out of the upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against the West Indies. The announcement was made on Monday by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), citing a "slight setback" in Buttler’s rehabilitation from a calf injury.
Buttler, renowned as one of the most formidable white-ball batsmen of his generation, had been scheduled to return to action in the three-match ODI series, set to commence in Antigua on October 31. This series was to mark his comeback from a prolonged injury lay-off. However, the latest setback means that the 34-year-old will miss the ODIs, although he is hopeful of joining the team in Barbados for the T20 series starting on November 9.
In Buttler’s absence, Liam Livingstone will take up the captaincy for the ODIs. The Lancashire all-rounder will lead England for the first time, stepping into a crucial role as the team seeks to find its rhythm ahead of the T20 series. The ECB has also brought in uncapped Essex player Michael Pepper as Buttler’s replacement in the ODI squad.
Buttler had been sidelined during England’s recent tours against Australia, where the T20 series ended in a 1-1 draw, and the ODI series concluded with England losing 3-2 to the reigning 50-over world champions. His absence was keenly felt, and fans were eager to see him back on the field.
A key member of the team that won the 2019 World Cup, Buttler’s absence from the recent T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies saw England fail to defend their title. The cricketing world will closely watch his recovery and future contributions to the England team, particularly in the T20 series against the West Indies, where his explosive skills will be vital.
With anticipation building for the T20 leg of the tour, fans and officials alike hope for Buttler’s quick recovery and return to his match-winning form.
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