Several key England players could miss the start of the five-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan in May 2027 due to their Indian Premier League (IPL) commitments.
According to ESPNcricinfo, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to allow centrally contracted players to complete their IPL commitments rather than recall them early for the home series against Pakistan.
The 2027 IPL is tentatively scheduled to run from March 10 to May 15, although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to finalize the dates. The possible clash could affect the availability of several England players, particularly those whose franchises reach the IPL playoffs and final.
England stars such as Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Jofra Archer, Sam Curran, Will Jacks and Jacob Bethell have been associated with IPL franchises. Their participation in the Pakistan series could depend on their franchise commitments and the final IPL schedule.
Pakistan will tour England for a five-match ODI series from May 15 to 26, 2027. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the schedule on July 23, confirming that the series will begin in Southampton.
The second ODI will take place in Manchester on May 19, followed by the third match in Leeds on May 21. Chester-le-Street will host the fourth ODI on May 23, while the fifth and final match will be played in Cardiff on May 26.
The series will provide important preparation for both teams ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, scheduled to take place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 4 to November 21.
Pakistan last toured England for an ODI series in 2021, when the hosts secured a 3-0 victory. Despite the defeat, Babar Azam was the leading run-scorer with 177 runs, including an innings of 158 in the third ODI.
Following the Pakistan series, England will host Bangladesh for a one-off Test at Lord’s starting May 28. They will then face Australia in the five-match Ashes series, beginning at Trent Bridge on June 18.
The number of England players who could miss matches against Pakistan remains uncertain. Their availability will depend on the final IPL schedule, franchise participation and England’s selection plans.
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