England Unveils Preliminary Squad for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced their preliminary 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, set to be held in India. The announcement comes as a blend of excitement and contemplation, with a mix of established veterans and emerging talents being named.

The selection has thrown a few curveballs, as England’s initial squad for the mega event features some unexpected inclusions and omissions. Among the most noteworthy decisions is the inclusion of the all-rounder Ben Stokes, marking his comeback to the One Day International (ODI) format. Stokes had initially retired from ODI cricket, but his change of heart was unveiled recently, and his return has been met with enthusiasm from cricket enthusiasts.

Interestingly, the initial squad does not feature the young batting sensation Harry Brook and star fast bowler Jofra Archer. The absence of these two names has raised eyebrows and stirred conversations among cricket aficionados. ECB selector Luke Wright shed light on the decision during the announcement, disclosing that Archer would be part of the World Cup preparations as a traveling reserve. As for Brook, his hopes for a maiden World Cup appearance have been dashed for now.

Wright addressed the media saying, “This is the squad we are going to put forward. It’s incredibly hard on some players that are going to miss out. It shows the strength and depth we have in English Cricket and there are other names who are knocking on the door as well. With the balance of the squad, and with only fifteen that you can name, it’s incredibly tough.”

He continued, “The return of Ben Stokes only adds to that quality with his match-winning ability and leadership. I am certain that every fan will enjoy seeing him back in an England ODI shirt again.”

The provisional squad includes stalwart names such as Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow, and Joe Root, forming a formidable core. Alongside them are emerging talents like Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, and Dawid Malan, who are expected to bring their vitality to the team’s World Cup campaign.

Teams have until September 5 to formally submit their provisional squads to the International Cricket Council (ICC), and further alterations can be made up until September 28, offering a margin for any last-minute adjustments.

Also See: 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup Schedule for Matches, Fixtures Dates, Venues and Teams

The curtain will rise on England’s World Cup journey on October 5 when they face New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Prior to the main event, the two teams are slated to engage in a gripping four-match ODI series, serving as a crucial preparatory phase ahead of the highly anticipated showdown.

England’s provisional squad for the World Cup: Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.