Five new names as familiar faces rest

LIAM Livingstone is one of five uncapped players named in England’s T20 squad for the series against South Africa as senior players are rested.

Mason Crane, Dawid Malan,Tom Curran and Craig Overton are all included for the three-match series but Moeen Ali, Jake Ball, Adil Rashid, Joe Root and Ben Stokes have been rested.

They will instead play for their counties in the inaugural day-night round of the County Championship, which starts on June 26.

Livingstone’s call-up comes after he scored 129 from 83 balls for the England Lions against South Africa A last week.

Lancashire team-mate and England star James Anderson said of Livingstone: “He’s a frightening talent. There’s just a fearless edge there. He loves going out and showing off his talent.”

Tymal Mills has been ruled out of the squad due to a back injury, though Mark Wood returns for the first match only.

Jason Roy, who managed just 18 runs in three innings for England in the Champions Trophy, is named in the squad.

Chairman of selectors James Whitaker said:“The squad has an exciting blend of youth and experience and we are looking forward to a competitive series against strong opposition.

“With five uncapped players selected, there is undoubted talent coming through the system and we are excited to see some of these players showcase their skills at the highest level.” ENGLAND SQUAD: Sam Billings (Kent), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Mason Crane (Hampshire),Tom Curran (Surrey), Liam Dawson (Hampshire), Alex Hales (Nottinghamshire), Chris Jordan (Sussex), Liam Livingstone (Lancashire), Dawid Malan (Middlesex), Eoin Morgan (Middlesex, capt), Liam Plunkett (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), David Willey (Yorkshire), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire) – available for the first two matches, Mark Wood (Durham) – available for the first match, Craig Overton (Somerset) – available for the last two matches