All-rounder Ben Stokes and fast bowler Jofra Archer have been rested for England’s two-Test tour of Sri Lanka in January, but both will return for the series in India the following month.
The duo were omitted from the 16-player squad and seven travelling reserves were named by the England selectors on Friday.
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“The national selectors will provide a block of rest for all multi-format players at various points over the winter period,” the England and Wales Cricket Board said.
England leave on January 2 and will play both Tests at the Galle International Cricket Stadium, the first starting on January 14.
