Zooming in: England’s T20 World Cup squad analysis
The defending 50-over champions, England have endured a turbulent transitory phase under the new skipper Jos Buttler after the retirement of their celebrated former skipper Eoin Morgan. After a horrendous English white-ball summer, where they lost back-to-back T20I series against India and South Africa, they are hoping to make amends in the upcoming ICC mega event.
The England team are currently engaged in a lengthy seven-match T20I series against hosts Pakistan. While Jofra Archer would be a big miss for the T20 WC, the injury to the prolific run-getter Jonny Bairstow further compounded their misery. Jonny Bairstow’s injury opened doors for the comeback of Alex Hales in the national setup after a hiatus of three years.
SWOT Analysis of England for T20 World Cup
Strength-
Jos Buttler boasts of a star-studded line-up that can dismantle any opposition with their abilities. Buttler himself, one of the most destructive batters in the format, has support from the menacing Liam Livingstone and Moeen Ali down the order. While Bairstow’s absence is a big miss, the incoming Alex Hales is renowned for his batting prowess in the shortest format of the game.
Weakness-
The England team has been marred with injuries, especially in the fast-bowling department. Mark Wood’s return is a big boost, but the side often capitulates under pressure. Buttler’s team has not been able to perform at the high standards set by his predecessor, Eoin Morgan with inconsistency in their batting and bowling unit being their weakest link.
Opportunity-
England were established as one of the most dangerous white-ball sides in the world under Morgan and lifted their maiden World Cup title under him in 2019. But since his retirement, the team has crumbled. The upcoming tournament is a big opportunity for players to prove their worth and set the wheels of a new era in motion.
Threat-
India and South Africa triumphed the English team during their white ball summer and are the two obvious threats in the tournament. Meanwhile, their eternal rivals Australia, the defending champions, are one of the strongest contenders to lift the title again since they will be playing in front of their home crowd in Australia.
