While Nasser Hussain expresses his delight at witnessing Jofra Archer back in action, he remains cautious about risking the injury-prone fast bowler at the World Cup. Archer recently grappled with a lower back stress fracture in May and is anticipated to regain full fitness toward the latter stages of the tournament. However, his inclusion in the squad hinges on the unfortunate event of another bowler succumbing to an injury.

Hussain concurs with England’s decision to include Archer in their World Cup touring party but fervently hopes that the existing squad stays injury-free. The former captain said, “Jofra, from what I’ve heard, is bowling well and has found his rhythm.”

Archer, at the age of 28, will travel to India as a reserve player after narrowly missing out on selection for Jos Buttler’s 15-man squad. Despite playing a pivotal role in England’s World Cup victory on home soil four years ago, including delivering the crucial super over during their final win against New Zealand, Archer’s career has been hampered by persistent injuries.

Hussain acknowledges the lack of recent match experience for Archer, a potential concern, especially in a World Cup setting. He comments, “He hasn’t seen much match action, and the World Cup doesn’t provide many opportunities for that. He might have to rely on net sessions. Nonetheless, having him as a reserve is a valuable asset. With his familiarity with India, acquired through his participation in the Indian Premier League, and his knowledge of the venues, his inclusion is the right decision, considering what he has been through.”

In addition to concerns about Archer, England supporters have also been worried about Ben Stokes’ fitness. Stokes grappled with a knee injury during the Ashes series but was persuaded to come out of one-day international (ODI) retirement for the World Cup. Notably, he recently notched a remarkable 182 against New Zealand, setting a new record for England’s highest individual score in ODI cricket.

Hussain points out that Ben Stokes, who will be 36 when the next ODI World Cup is held in 2027, is likely to retire from the format after this year’s tournament. However, the timing of his retirement remains a matter known solely to Ben himself.

Jos Buttler, an England cricket stalwart, acknowledges the significant influence of history on the upcoming World Cup. Despite England’s wealth of experience in adapting to diverse cricketing conditions, Buttler emphasizes that the historical precedent of host nations prevailing adds substantial weight to India’s status as the frontrunners on their home turf.

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Sangakkara named India and England as his top favorites for the World Cup 2023. He also commended Sri Lanka for their performance in the Asia Cup and suggested that they could pose a challenge for a playoff position, emphasizing that once a team reaches the playoffs, they are only one game away from the final.

Pakistan’s quest for a frontline specialist spinner has become increasingly evident, particularly with the impending ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in India.

In response to this need, Pakistan cricket fans have been vocal in expressing their preferences for spin-bowling options in the squad, with discussions centering around the inclusion of experienced campaigner Imad Wasim and emerging talent Abrar Ahmed.

In a poll conducted by Cricket Pakistan, respondents were asked to vote for their preferred spin-bowling options, and the results showcased a strong inclination towards the selection of Imad Wasim.

Fans favor Imad due to his extensive international experience, especially in high-pressure tournaments like the World Cup. His ability to control the game with his spin and contribute with both bat and ball strengthens his case for inclusion.

Conversely, the clamor for the inclusion of Abrar Ahmed is supported by his impressive recent performances in Test cricket.

While the ultimate decision on the squad composition rests with the team management, considering various factors such as form, experience, and suitability to the playing conditions, it is evident that Pakistan fans have clearly signaled their preference for potential picks like Imad and Abrar, potentially replacing Shadab Khan.

“It’s definitely great to have some younger guys here pushing us and getting some match experience and creating that depth within the squad,” he said. “We’re making steady progress, and our focus is on continuous improvement leading up to the World Cup.”

1. Kane Williamson (capt)
2. Trent Boult
3. Mark Chapman
4. Devon Conway
5. Lockie Ferguson
6. Matt Henry
7. Tom Latham
8. Daryl Mitchell
9. Jimmy Neesham
10. Glenn Phillips
11. Rachin Ravindra
12. Mitchell Santner
13. Ish Sodhi
14. Tim Southee
15. Will Young

A key figure in Australia’s previous two World Cup campaigns in 2015 and 2019, Maxwell’s versatile skills make him indispensable to the five-time champions. His ability to score rapidly and contribute with both bat and ball, along with his fielding prowess, adds significant value to the team.

Maxwell has not represented his country since playing in an ODI against India at Wankhede in March. Furthermore, he has been sidelined at all levels since a solitary appearance in an English County Championship match for Warwickshire in early July. Although initially slated to participate in the T20I component of Australia’s ongoing tour of South Africa, he had to return home due to ankle soreness.