Adil Rashid’s ODI tri-series exile baffles as England lose to Sri Lanka and Pakistan

England’s decision to leave leg-spinner Adil Rashid out of their final three matches in the ODI tri-series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka proved costly, as Harry Brook’s side missed out on the final despite posting 429 in one game. Rashid, England’s most experienced white-ball spinner, watched from the sidelines while Sri Lanka’s Pavan Rathnayake and Dasun Shanaka pulled off a record chase, making Brook the first player to score an ODI double hundred in a losing cause. England had earlier beaten Sri Lanka home and away this year and embarrassed Pakistan with the Dukes ball in the summer, but tactical missteps in the tri-series—including Rashid’s absence—left them without a trophy. The leg-spinner’s exclusion was puzzling given his control and wicket-taking ability in the middle overs, especially on pitches that offered turn. With the Champions Trophy in Australia looming, England must correct their tactical wrongs and bring Rashid back into the XI to balance an attack that leaned too heavily on pace. The tri-series exposed a need for a frontline spinner who can stem run-scoring and break partnerships when the required rate climbs. As the team regroups, the focus will be on selecting their strongest side—and Rashid’s return is non-negotiable if England are to compete with the world’s best.