Brook has described Rashid as a magician, but he stopped short of guaranteeing the bowler a place in the side. Buttler, meanwhile, has suggested that England will need Rashid bowling at his best if they are to win the 2027 World Cup.

Such glowing praise paired with no promise of selection is a telling mix. It shows that admiration for a player's quality does not automatically translate into a secure role, and it keeps the competition for places open. Buttler's comments add weight to the picture, because they make clear that the team's hopes rest partly on Rashid producing his most effective form. For England, the question is less about whether the bowler is good enough and more about whether he can be relied on at the moments that matter most.

Read the full story on ESPNcricinfo for the complete context behind both sets of comments.