England have had a forgettable 2023 World Cup campaign so far in India. The defending champions have won only one match, which was against Bangladesh. In their other five matches, England suffered losses at the hands of Afghanistan, India, New Zealand, South Africa and even qualifiers Sri Lanka.
The combination of Jos Buttler and Matthew Mott has proven to be a major flop in the ODI format. Just like 2015, England will have to hit the reboot button in the ODI team after the 2023 World Cup ends. They will have to make some hard calls, and it is likely that the following three players might never don the England jersey in the ODI format again.
1. Ben Stokes may retire from ODI and never play for England after 2023 World Cup
Test captain Ben Stokes had already announced retirement from ODI cricket last year. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) urged him to reverse his decision and play in the 2023 World Cup. Stokes came out of retirement, but the decision did not do any favor for the England team.
Stokes’ injury has not allowed him to bowl in the mega event. He even missed the first few matches of the tournament and is struggling to contribute as a specialist batter now.
2. Moeen Ali
Senior all-rounder Moeen Ali seems more to be a T20 specialist now. He was expected to play a big role in Indian conditions because of his IPL experience. However, Ali has struggled to make an impact in both the departments of the game.
3. Reece Topley
Reece Topley has probably suffered the most injuries by a cricketer in the game’s history. He has unfortunately suffered injuries after almost every second game that he plays for England. Perhaps, the left-arm fast bowler can retire from the longer formats of the game and play only T20Is going forward.
