Jordan hoping for “selection headache”

Chris Jordan believes England’s back-up players can play their way into contention during their upcoming T20 series. England are away on a tour of New Zealand and are set to face the Black Caps in a five-match T20 series, starting on Friday. After a gruelling summer schedule which included a successful ODI World Cup win and the failure to regain the Ashes, several of England’s big hitters have been rested for the T20 series. Jofra Archer, Chris Woakes and Moeen Ali are among the absentees meaning there is an opportunity to shine for seamers Sam Curran, Pat Brown and Saqib Mahmood, as well as leg-spinner Matt Parkinson, in England colours. Jordan, who has played for England across all formats, says those being given an opportunity could go on to make the selectors’ job much more difficult in future. “Anything that makes English cricket stronger makes the team stronger and it keeps everyone on top of their game,” the 31-year-old told PA. “The more guys that we can have pushing for selection, the more headaches we can give selectors. “We’ve added a wealth of young talent to the squad which brings in some good energy. It’s an opportunity for everyone. I’ll have to continue to improve myself and stay on top of my game.” England play New Zealand in a five-match T20 series next month, ahead of a two-match Test series.