From the five players included in the ODI squad, Archer and Overton play for Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings respectively, two sides that will not reach the knockout stage. That clears the path for both to return in time to play a full part in the Windies series.
Buttler (Gujarat Titans), Bethell (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) and Jacks (Mumbai Indians), could all feature in the knockouts, leaving potential decisions to make. All-rounder Bethell had already opted to skip next week’s one-off Test in order to play at the IPL.
If the trio wish to complete the IPL, England would then have to rule on an NOC. It may be that the ECB wished to avoid a confrontation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
In addition, the IPL has implemented a policy of enforcing two-year bans on any players pulling out of deals, though an exception could be made in these extreme circumstances.
The ECB said: “We’re keen to support the IPL and the BCCI in getting the schedule up and running, and to facilitate players’ return should they choose to go back.
“No Objection Certificates have been granted based on the original IPL dates, so we’ll need to review any potential extensions, particularly in relation to any clash with the final white-ball squad. We’ll continue to work closely with the BCCI and the IPL as the situation develops.”
The one-day series against West Indies is significant as Harry Brook’s first as England’s new white-ball captain.
It could also have long-term implications around England’s qualification for the 2027 World Cup. The top eight teams in the world rankings as of March 2027 will advance directly. England and the Windies are currently eighth and ninth respectively.
