With Ben Duckett expected to participate following worries about a left groin issue, England can finally feel relieved ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Duckett suffered an injury while fielding during England’s recent 142-run loss to India in Ahmedabad, raising questions over whether he will be able to play in the competition, which starts next week. The left-handed hitter is, however, fully healthy enough to compete in the event, according to reports and scans.
The England Men’s batter Ben Duckett is fit and available for the ICC Champions Trophy,
according to a statement issued by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) following scans on a left groin injury.
Following a recent scan, we have an update on Ben Duckett’s fitness ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) February 15, 2025
For the England team management, who have endured a challenging period under the new white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum, Duckett’s availability is a source of relief and happiness. McCullum has experienced a string of disappointments in his first ODI assignment since taking over at the start of 2025, including a 3-0 series loss to India.
A hamstring injury forced Jacob Bethell to withdraw from the Champions Trophy, costing England an all-round player. England’s strategy and preparations have undergone more changes with the addition of wicketkeeper-batter Tom Banton in lieu of the youthful player. The team is scheduled to land in Pakistan on Tuesday, February 18, in preparation for their tournament debut in Lahore on Saturday, February 22 against Australia.
As England works to improve the team and try to overcome their setbacks against India, Duckett’s availability gives their batting lineup much-needed confidence.
At the outset of their match against fierce rivals Australia, England will be keen to get off to a fast start and move past their recent disappointments.
India
