'Magician' Adil Rashid's return to England's playing XI not guaranteed
What's the story
Harry Brook, the captain of the England cricket team, has hailed spinner Adil Rashid as a "magician" for his extraordinary bowling skills. However, he did not confirm whether Rashid would be included in England's playing XI for the upcoming match against Australia in Perth on Friday. This uncertainty comes despite Jos Buttler's earlier statement that England might not win next year's ODI World Cup without Rashid being there and bowling at his best.
Performance review
Rashid's recent ODI form
Rashid had a modest outing in England's three ODIs against India in July, picking just one wicket.
He missed the September series against Sri Lanka due to a hand injury.
Though he returned for the first of four tri-series matches in Pakistan last month, his performance wasn't up to the mark as he took 1 for 55 in eight overs.
Strategic discussions
Brook praises Rashid, but doesn't confirm ODI spot
Despite Rashid's underwhelming performance in Pakistan, England have been adamant that the decision was mainly due to the conditions there.
Brook praised Rashid's skills but also noted that Liam Dawson did an exceptional job in Pakistan.
"It's all conditions dependent, really," Brook, England's captain, told BBC Sport when asked about Rashid's role.
"Everybody knows how good Rash is. He's a magician with the ball. He can tear through sides, and the skill that he possesses is unbelievable. It's awesome to have him in and around the squad."
Information
Brook highlights the performance of Liam Dawson
Brook highlighted Liam Dawson's performance versus Pakistan. "But Liam Dawson did an exceptional job in Pakistan, and he did the role very well. He had a lot of clarity at the top of his mark, he knew exactly what he needed to do, and he performed well."
Tactical focus
Brook emphasizes controlling middle overs
Brook stressed the importance of controlling middle overs, an area where England has struggled during the tri-series.
He said this is key to dominating in modern cricket and something they've talked a lot about ahead of this series.
Despite being a work in progress, Brook is optimistic about putting these lessons into practice against Australia.
World Cup concerns
Buttler insists on Rashid's importance for the World Cup
Buttler, who will miss the Australia tour after hamstring surgery last month, stressed the need for a fit and in-form Rashid to win the World Cup.
He said that despite knowing time won't stand still for anyone, he believes Rashid is crucial to England's success in white-ball cricket.
Buttler's comments highlight how important Rashid is to England's chances at next year's World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.