T20 World Cup 2021: England’s probable playing XI
England had made it to the final of the 2016 T20 World Cup and were looking set to win the trophy until a certain Carlos Brathwaite stole the show. Five years from that, England have got some of their key players from that campaign and will start as one of the favourites for the T20 World Cup 2021. Here is their predicted starting XI:
Openers – Jos Buttler and Jason Roy
Since he has started opening in T20Is, Buttler has made 10 scores of 50+ in 22 innings. His rise as an opener is one of the key reasons why this English side looks much more stronger. His partner should be Jason Roy, going by how England has operated in recent times. But, Roy can be inconsistent at times, which should keep a couple of players on their toes. Nevertheless, England will start with Roy and Buttler, but with Malan and Bairstow, they have a couple of good combinations available.
Middle-order – Jonny Bairstow, Eoin Morgan and Liam Livingstone
Despite being the No.1 T20I batsman, Dawid Malan might not get to start. He was a bit inconsistent through the summer which might just make Morgan go ahead with Bairstow instead. There is a bit of concern over Morgan’s own form, but being the skipper, one can’t think of making this XI without him. Liam Livingstone has definitely earned a right to be in this XI and could be a crucial part of Morgan’s set-piece. This is considering England have picked only two spinners and he can be a handy part-timer.
All-rounders – Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Chris Woakes
It may sound absurd, but if England will miss Ben Stokes least in a tournament, it is the T20 World Cup. Moeen Ali’s T20 numbers with the bat and the ball is quite inspiring and going by the conditions, he looks the correct fit for this unit. Sam Curran has been impressive in the IPL on these pitches, much like Moeen and should find a place. Woakes is an experienced campaigner and his wicket-taking ability with the new ball could be relatively handy.
Bowlers – Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Tymal Mills
Adil Rashid makes it to this XI by merit, excellence and strong performances. His IPL stint could just make him get used to the conditions a lot more. Mark Wood might get a start, but he should be aware that, in David Willey and Chris Jordan, England have good enough subs. It should keep him on his toes, much like Tymal Mills. The left-arm seamer is an excellent addition to this side and could just edge the other pacers to start in the first XI, with his multi-dimensionality.
