Ben Foakes called up to England ODI squad for injured Sam Billings

Ben Foakes replaces fellow wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings, who dislocated his shoulder in the field yesterday for his county side Kent in a 50-over clash against Glamorgan in Cardiff. Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow, who were on the Indian Premier League duties have been rested for both fixtures. In these circumstances, Ben Foakes is likely to make his debut for England this summer. 

England play Ireland in that ODI in Malahide on Friday, May 3rd before their attentions turn to a T20I and five-match ODI series against Pakistan ahead of next month's World Cup. Should Foakes play, it will be his first white-ball appearance for England. Foakes made his Test debut for England in Sri Lanka late last year and impressed, scoring a century on debut. His recent 50-over form has been good for Surrey, hitting 64, 82 and 71 in his last three white-ball outings for the county. 

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Whilst Billings was left out of England's provisional ICC Men's Cricket World Cup squad, his injury means that should one of Buttler or Bairstow sustain an injury during the tournament, Foakes would be the likely replacement. Meanwhile, Jofra Archer will also be seen wearing England colors for the first time and will look to utilise this opportunity with both hands.

In the provisional squad announced by England Cricket Board (ECB) for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, Archer wasn't named in the squad. However, if the cricket pundits are to be believed, England wants to test him for two bilateral series before coming onto a final call.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ben Foakes to replace Sam Billings into the England line up for upcoming bilateral series.
• Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow have been rested for both fixtures.
• England will play their first game against Ireland on May 3.