2023 ODI World Cup: 3 players who need to step up their game for England

The defending champions England have completely looked out of sorts in the World Cup so far. They have only registered one win out of four matches that they have played in the tournament. Consecutive losses to Afghanistan and South Africa have put their campaign in jeopardy. It would be very important for the English side to lift themselves up if they want to make a comeback.

Let’s take a look at 3 players who need to step up for England:

1. Jonny Bairstow

First on this list would be the firebrand opener of this English side, Jonny Bairstow. Bairstow was one of the prime reasons behind England’s glorious campaign in the 2019 ODI World Cup. Bairstow was the second-highest run scorer for England in the last World Cup, just behind Joe Root. 

Bairstow is one of the core components of the philosophy that England plays their cricket with. The English side is heavily reliant on Bairstow to give them a good start which can allow them to post huge targets or chase down the same. But in this World Cup Bairstow has not lived up to the expectations. He has only scored 97 runs in 4 innings at a disappointing average of 24.25. The opener needs to start making runs if the English side has to stay alive in the tournament.

2. Jos Buttler

The English skipper is one of the names who have been below par in this World Cup. Buttler is globally known as one of the best White ball batters but he has not justified his recognition. Scoring only 87 runs in the first four matches he has been very poor when it comes to taking the responsibility. Buttler is probably the most important name in the English middle-order but the failure of England to chase down targets in this World Cup is reflective of the fact that Buttler has been disastrous. Now it is do-or-die time for England in this World Cup and the skipper must step up to lead the side by an example.

3. Mark Wood

Another player who is key to success for England is Mark Wood but his wicket-taking form has been dismal. Wood has only picked up 3 wickets so far in this tournament. His poor run with the ball has cost his side dearly. He could not even complete his quota of 10 overs against South Africa which shows how pathetic this campaign has been for him. His inability to strike wickets in the middle overs has made him toothless. Wood is known for his extra pace but that has not helped him at all. Buttler must use Wood more judiciously if he wants contribution from this speedster. Wickets in the middle overs would be the key.

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