England's preparations for their three-match ODI series against India have taken a hit with the news that wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith will miss the first two games due to an injury. Meanwhile Jofra Archer is set to play only two of the three matches which adds to England’s selection concerns. Smith, who made his T20 debut in the recently concluded five-match series against India, suffered the injury during the third game and was subsequently sidelined. Archer has struggled with fitness in recent years, and he will be carefully managed to prevent further setbacks.

With these absences England will need to make tactical adjustments as they look to bounce back from a disappointing white-ball run. England will have to cope without Smith for the first two ODIs as the wicketkeeper is still recovering from a calf strain. Smith was injured during the third T20 against India and was subsequently ruled out of the final two games of that series. His absence means England must decide between Jos Buttler and Phil Salt for the gloves. Buttler, who has been managing his own fitness issues, has not kept wickets consistently since returning from a calf injury in November 2024.

That leaves Salt as a possible alternative, though he has limited experience in the role at the ODI level. While Smith is expected to recover in time for the final ODI, England will need to manage their keeping resources carefully. His return could be crucial in stabilising the middle order and providing an additional option behind the stumps ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Archer is unlikely to take full part in the ODI series, with reports suggesting he will play only two matches in the series. The fast bowler has had a long road back from injury and England are being cautious with his workload as they look to keep him fit for the Champions Trophy.

Saqib Mahmood is expected to step in for the first ODI to give Archer additional recovery time. England’s management is wary of overworking their premier pacer, given his history of injury setbacks. Archer's availability for the series is still a boost for England, even if he is not playing every game. His pace and movement will be vital in Indian conditions and his presence in at least two matches should provide England with a much-needed edge. However, in the recently concluded T20I series against India, Archer struggled to perform to his best.

England have endured a tough run in ODI cricket, struggling since their disastrous World Cup campaign in 2023. They were one of the worst-performing sides in that tournament as they lost six matches and failed to defend their title. Their form has not improved much since, with the team suffering back-to-back series defeats to West Indies and Australia. The upcoming series against India is their last chance to find some rhythm before heading into the Champions Trophy.