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.

“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.