SL vs ENG: Why Will Jacks didn't play first ODI against Sri Lanka despite being named in XI? Explained

Will Jacks was initially named in the England playing XI for the first SL vs ENG clash, but didn’t feature in the game in Colombo.

England Cricket Team are touring Sri Lanka for a white-ball series, which comprises three ODIs and an equal number of T20Is. The SL vs ENG 1st ODI got underway on January 22 (Thursday) at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

England had already announced their playing XI for the 1st ODI on the previous day. Interestingly, all-rounder Will Jacks was initially named in England’s playing XI for the match. However, he was ruled out of the clash at the last moment.

Jacks was set to play a pivotal role in England’s playing XI in the match with his ability to both bat and bowl. He is an aggressive batter and can lend a hand in the bowling with his off-spin. Rehan Ahmed was added into England’s playing XI after Jack was ruled out of the 1st SL vs ENG ODI.

Why was Will Jacks removed from England’s playing XI in 1st ODI vs Sri Lanka?

Notably, Jacks was ruled out of the encounter after getting sick ahead of the match. He was removed from the playing XI just one hour ahead of the toss. The England management confirmed the late withdrawal just as the team sheets were being finalised before the game.

At the toss, England captain Harry Brook revealed Jacks was ruled out of the match due to illness.

“We would have had a bat first, but it is what it is. Zak comes in to open the batting with Ben. Rehan comes in for an ill Will Jacks. Sri Lanka are a massive side at home and we want to do well against them,” Brook said.

Speaking about the match, Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka won the toss and opted to bat. Rehan’s addition to the playing XI did not turn out to be fruitful, as he went too expensive in his 10-over spell. The right-arm spinner leaked 61 runs off his 10 overs and picked one wicket.

While Sri Lankan openers Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishra failed to go big with the bat, Kusal Mendis played a wonderful knock of an unbeaten 93 runs at three.

Janith Liyanage added crucial 46 runs, while Dunith Wellalage scored an unbeaten 25 runs towards the end to drive the team’s total to 271/6. Spinner Adil Rashid clinched a three-wicket haul for the visitors, while three others got one scalp each.

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