Sam Curran is finally set to make his long-awaited return to the England national team, as he prepares to feature against South Africa after nearly 10 months away from international cricket.
The first match of the three-match T20I series will be played on Wednesday in Cardiff, and England announced their playing XI a day earlier. This will also mark the first time Curran plays under head coach Brendon McCullum.
Curran last played for England in November 2024, when Marcus Trescothick was serving as interim coach. Back then, McCullum was in charge of the Test team only. However, since taking over as England’s white-ball head coach in September last year and officially starting in January, the former New Zealand batter hadn’t called upon Curran—until now.
Curran’s recent performances in The Hundred caught McCullum’s eye. Representing the Oval Invincibles, the 27-year-old all-rounder scored 238 runs and picked up 12 wickets, playing a key role in helping his team clinch the title.
With Ben Duckett rested for the series, Curran found his way back into the squad last Friday. His return adds significant depth to England’s lineup, especially given his pivotal role in their 2022 T20 World Cup triumph, where he was named Player of the Final and Player of the Tournament.
England had struggled with the lack of a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder during their recent 2-1 ODI series defeat to South Africa at home, where spinners Jacob Bethell and Will Jacks had to share the fifth-bowler duties. Both retain their spots in the XI for this match, with Bethell expected to bat at No. 3 and Curran likely slotting in at No. 5.
The pace attack will also feature Jamie Overton and the in-form Jofra Archer, while Adil Rashid (leg-spin) and Liam Dawson (left-arm spin) complete a balanced bowling unit.
England XI for 1st T20I vs South Africa
Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Tom Banton, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid.
