teams-en sport cricket-world-cup Virgin Media
Given England's current form in both One-day and Test cricket, one wants to write them off from the word go. The Englishmen have been the laughing stock of world cricket in recent times with an ODI series whitewash to India, an early exit in the Champions Trophy and some very poor showings in the Commonwealth Bank series. Throw in their 5-0 Ashes drubbing, albeit in the Test arena, and punters have no reason to place a cent on England to come anywhere near the final eight of the World Cup. It's going to be a hard fought battle for Duncan Fletcher's troops who at least should be bolstered by the return of the injured Michael Vaughan and Kevin Pietersen. Grouped in Pool C with New Zealand, Kenya and Canada.
In all likelihood Michael Vaughan will be the man England look to lead them to the West Indies. However, subject to Vaughany's fitness, Andrew Flintoff might be the trooper extended the invitation to lead the beleaguered English into battle. Flintoff the all-rounder is world-class; Flintoff the skipper, not so much. Vaughan has the captaincy know-how but with very little game time over the past year, could well come up short in the batting department.
None other than Kevin Pietersen of course. KP talks the talk and more often than not backs it up with runs. England's opinionated South Africa-lover is a one-man-army in the middle-order and can ravage a bowling attack to no end.
Monty Panesar, ever on the rise, is just waiting to turn his new-found fame in the Test arena into some wickets on the One-day front. Also, bursting at the seams to perform for his country since his return to injury, James Anderson is a good bet to finish top wicket-taker for England at least; brimming with speed and youthful exuberance.
The Super Eight stage is probably where it will all end for England this World Cup.
