It is not uncommon to have all-rounders operate as pure specialists in either of the departments. It is down to their fitness situation. It also depends if a team requires that particular contribution by an all-rounder in a specific department. We could have a few cases in the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup, as well. Here, we take a look at three all-rounders who might play as specialist batters in ODI World Cup 2023.
1) Ben Stokes – England
Ben Stokes has returned to the ODI squad for England. Although he is one of the best all-rounders in the game right now, his current fitness state may not allow Stokes to bowl. In fact, considering all these factors only, the management has brought him in as a specialist batter.
The big-match player that he is, Stokes has pulled England out of the hole on many occasions with the bat. Also, considering England has other all-rounders such as Sam Curran and Moeen Ali, the balance might not be hurt that much by Stokes not bowling.
2) Angelo Mathews – Sri Lanka
Angelo Mathews is one of the all-rounders who might play as a specialist batter in the ODI World Cup 2023. In fact, the Sri Lankan veteran has not bowled since 2020 in ODIs.
While he is an important batter for the side, it is no surprise that he will take the bowl. The management is used to this and the team has been constructing taking this factor into consideration.
3) Mitchell Marsh – Australia
The Aussie all-rounder has had several injury issues in the past. Nevertheless, he does bowl now and then. In 2023, though, in ODIs, Marsh has not bowled.
He is an extremely important batter for the side. Australia anyways has the likes of Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis who can offer a similar bowling type. Hence, the Aussies might not risk giving the ball to Marsh.
