England has named the provisional squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup. Of course, there could still be some changes but it is unlikely that England would make any. There were a few surprises with the squad that was selected. England took an interesting approach with respect to the combination. Only one specialist spinner was included in the setup. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three players lucky to get a chance in the England squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
1) Joe Root
Joe Root has not played an ODI this year. His last century in this format was way back in 2019. In around 15 games that he played since 2020, he has had 5 single-digit scores.
It appears that Root’s ability to bowl a few overs of off-spin might have helped him get a spot in the side. Otherwise, there were some other options such as Phil Salt or James Vince, who have played for England recently in ODIs, for the management.
2) David Willey
England cannot drop Sam Curran and Reece Topley is also important because of his ability to impact games at the start. With two left-arm seamers, Willey can consider himself lucky to have earned a spot.
England could have had an extra spinner like Rehan Ahmed. However, them going for Willey means he will be utilized more in the batting unit, as well. Anyways, it is an interesting call to pick three similar pacers in the side.
3) Gus Atkinson
Gus Atkinson is one of the players lucky to get a chance in the England squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup. A new name for many, Atkinson’s high ceiling as a pacer has earned him a spot in the ODI squad.
However, it needs to be noted that he has played only 2 List-A games in his career. For a tournament such as the ODI WC, this experience may not be enough. England had a variety of other options such as Olly Stone. Hence, the London-born seamer might consider himself lucky to have got a spot.