Swann will miss the entire ODI series
In an attempt to limit the players’ workload and chances of sustaining injuries, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have announced that they will be continuing their rotation policy throughout the five-ODI series against India in January.
The board also revealed that off-spinner Graeme Swann will not be included in the squad since they are concerned about his long-standing elbow issues.
Pace bowler Steven Finn and batsman Kevin Pietersen will play during the ODI series after missing both Twenty20 Internationals.
After failing to earn a spot on the Twenty20 side, wicketkeeper Craig Kieswetter has been included in the 15-man ODI squad, despite his lack of form with the bat throughout the past couple of series.
Even head coach Andy Flower’s workload has decreased as Ashley Giles was brought in to take over everything concerning the limited overs teams.
“We are constantly looking to manage the workload of players as effectively as possible and this winter is no different,” national selector Geoff Miller said. “So there are number of players who are being rested for parts of the winter programme to enable them to take part in fitness and conditioning programmes in preparation for a busy 2013.
“We know that playing limited overs cricket in India can be challenging but the ODI series provides an excellent opportunity for these players to show that they have learnt valuable lessons from the last ODI series against India and improved as players in subcontinent conditions.”
During their last ODI series against India in October 2011, England were absolutely humiliated after suffering a 5-0 whitewashing.
One noticeable absentee in the England lineup is batsman Ravi Bopara, who had a shocking ODI series against South Africa over the summer, recording scores of 16, 0, 6 and 0.
With Pietersen back in action, there has been talk of Bopara’s international career being all but over unless he ends his run drought.
Another persisting problem England face is whether they should give Kieswetter a chance with the gloves or if they should continue using Jonny Bairstow, who has been solid behind the stumps and with his batting as well.
England’s bowling attack is set to be lead by Finn, while James Anderson and Stuart Broad are set to support him.
Jade Dernbach has also been included in the squad, but will probably be sidelined unless one of the pace trio suffers an injury or has a poor game.
With Swann missing the entire ODI series, Kent’s new captain James Tredwell will be England’s leading spinner, along with youngster Danny Briggs being used as a secondary option, while all-rounder Samit Patel’s left-arm spin is also expected to come in handy.
Meanwhile, Tim Bresnan could insert himself into the squad if Briggs is not required.
England’s ODI squad is as follows: Alastair Cook (c), Jonny Bairstow, Ian Bell, Tim Bresnan, Danny Briggs, Jade Dernbach, Steven Finn, Craig Kieswetter, Stuart Meaker, Eoin Morgan, Samit Patel, Kevin Pietersen, James Tredwell, Jonathan Trott, James Anderson (first three matches), Stuart Broad (final two matches)