As the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 looms on the horizon, England confronts the task of constructing a formidable team. With the tournament set to unfold in India, striking the right balance between seasoned campaigners and emerging talents becomes pivotal.
In a remarkable feat down under, England etched their name in history by becoming the first nation to concurrently hold both the T20I and ODI World Cups. This achievement undoubtedly places them among the top contenders as they prepare to defend their 50-over title on Indian soil later this year.
Could the return of Ben Stokes, who retired from ODIs last year, be an astonishing twist that catches everyone by surprise? Taking into account current performances and future potential, here is a probable squad for England’s cricket squad as they gear up for the forthcoming World Cup.
England’s Probable Squad for ICC ODI World Cup 2023
Batsmen: Jason Roy, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Harry Brook
England faced a challenging situation when Jason Roy, a key figure in Morgan’s transformation, struggled to make a significant impact last year. After 11 innings, Roy averaged 33.5, accumulating 335 runs at a strike rate of 93.83. However, this concern has been addressed as Roy substantially improved his performance in 2023, registering two centuries in six innings, elevating his average to 46.33.
Beside Roy, two of England’s most reliable ODI batsmen, Joe Root (6,203 runs at 50.05) and Dawid Malan (769 runs at 54.92), are certain to be included. Emerging talent Harry Brook is likely to secure a place if one of them underperforms.
All-rounders: Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes
Despite Sam Curran’s less impressive batting figures (318 runs at 24.46) and bowling record (26 wickets at 36.38), the 25-year-old is projected as England’s next rising star, particularly in limited-overs formats. Notably, he secured 13 wickets in the previous year’s T20 World Cup, including three in the final, earning him Player of the Match and Tournament awards.
England’s deep batting lineup owes credit to prolific all-rounders. Liam Livingstone and Moeen Ali are likely starters given spin-friendly conditions, while Chris Woakes is expected to be on the roster as a backup for Curran. It’s worth noting that Ben Stokes effectively ruled out a comeback during the recent Ashes series, diminishing the likelihood of his return to the grandest stage.
Wicket-keepers: Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow, Phil Salt
A distinguished limited-overs opener, Bairstow (3634 runs at 46.58 with a strike rate of 104.12) will partner with Roy at the top. Captain Jos Buttler (4641 runs at 41.49 with 117.97) may shift to No. 6 or retain his usual No. 5 spot depending on match situations. Phil Salt, a wicket-keeping option, will likely serve as a backup opener.
Bowlers: Mark Wood, Adil Rashid, Reece Topley, Jofra Archer
The question looms: will Jofra Archer regain his full form for the World Cup? Despite his injury struggles dampening his express pace, Archer’s inclusion remains probable if he recovers. Reece Topley’s rising form could earn him precedence, even though Mark Wood (71 wickets at 37.88) and Adil Rashid (183 wickets at 32.20) are assured selections.
Also Read: Bangladesh’s Probable Squad for ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Can Shakib and Litton make the Bangla Tigers’ long-awaited Dream a Reality?
England’s Predicted Playing 11 for ICC ODI World Cup 2023
- Jason Roy
- Jonny Bairstow
- Dawid Malan
- Joe Root
- Jos Buttler (c & wk)
- Liam Livingstone
- Moeen Ali
- Sam Curran
- Mark Wood
- Adil Rashid
- Reece Topley