England announces playing XI for first T20I against Sri Lanka; Aneurin Donald set to make debut

The 29-year-old then smashed 38 off 19 balls in the Hundred final to help Trent Rockets win the title. | Photo Credit: Reuters

Opening batter Aneurin Donald is set to make his England debut as the team announced its playing XI for the first T20I against Sri Lanka at the Aegeas Bowl in Southampton on Tuesday.

Donald scored 489 runs including four fifties, across 12 Vitality Blast matches this season, while smacking 37 sixes, a tournament record.

The 29-year-old then smashed 38 off 19 balls in the Hundred final to help Trent Rockets win the title.

Donald will open the batting alongside Jos Buttler, as regular Phil Salt continues his recovery from a right quad injury. Captain Harry Brook will slot in at three, while Jordan Cox and Tom Banton will complete the middle order.

Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, and Liam Dawson will play the all-rounder roles, while Josh Tongue, Sony Baker, and Adil Rashid will make up the bowling unit.

Jofra Archer has been rested for the first T20I following the three-match Test series against Pakistan.

England playing XI for first T20I against Sri Lanka

Aneurin Donald, Jos Buttler (wk), Harry Brook (c), Jordan Cox, Tom Banton, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Josh Tongue, Sonny Baker, Adil Rashid