England are ready to include Jofra Archer in their T20 World Cup squad, with the seamer closing in on his comeback after a year recovering from his latest injury problems.
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Archer has not played competitive cricket since last May due to a recurrence of a stress fracture in his troublesome right elbow, but he has been earmarked to spearhead the England attack in a title defence co-hosted by his native West Indies.
England are approaching Archer's return with caution after multiple breakdowns over the past four years and has already ruled him out of the Test arena until 2025 at the earliest, but hope the less demanding 20-over format allows him to relocate his full form and fitness.
A 15-strong group will be announced on Tuesday - alongside a squad to take on Pakistan in a four-match home series at the end of May - charged with markedly improving on last year's dire defence of their 50-over crown.
While there are plenty of bad memories of India among the survivors from that trip, four batters have made centuries in the ongoing Indian Premier League - captain Jos Buttler, under-pressure Jonny Bairstow, opener Phil Salt and allrounder Will Jacks,.
The latter could be the beneficiary of Ben Stokes' decision to declare himself unavailable for the World Cup.
All-rounders Liam Livingstone and Sam Curran are also set to join up from the IPL, as is seamer Reece Topley, while Harry Brook has been tuning up with Yorkshire after stepping away from the tournament for personal reasons.
Ben Duckett is hoping to make the cut as the spare batter, with his left-handedness and ability to fit in anywhere across the top six both attractive qualities.
Established spinners Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali are going to need some back-up, with left-armer Tom Hartley vying with leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed.
Among the seamers the experienced Chris Jordan is back in the frame, possibly at the expense of Chris Woakes. Like Archer, Jordan was born in Barbados before making his way with England. The 35-year-old knows the terrain, is a close friend and confidant of Archer, has captaincy experience and remains an impeccable fielder.
Gus Atkinson is fancied to be at the head of a supporting queue that also includes the likes of Tymal Mills, Luke Wood, Brydon Carse and Olly Stone.
Australian Associated Press
