England 2019 Cricket World Cup squad: Key players, fixtures, prediction, odds and more

England are the hosts and favourites to win the World Cup as a result of four years of meticulous planning as well as a seismic culture shift, after failing to advance to the knockout stage in a forgettable campaign in 2015.

Eoin Morgan’s side plays the most fearless cricket on the international scene and have re-written the rules for the one-day format with scores in the mid-300s the par for this exciting side.

Trying to think of a reason why this side will not be in the final at Lord’s on 14 July is incredibly tricky work, especially when you look at the sides England have beaten on home soil in the last 18 months. England have won a series against Pakistan, Ireland, India, Australia and West Indies on familiar turf since their last home defeat against Australia in 2015, excluding the Champions Trophy in 2015.

England have the capacity of setting targets of 300 or more without breaking a sweat and can defend totals with an impressive selection of varied bowlers.

Jofra Archer’s inclusion further bolsters a side that have been waiting for four very long years for this exact moment, and it’s unlikely that they miss their opportunity.

Fixtures

• Vs South Africa, Thursday 30 May, The Oval, London

• Vs Pakistan, Monday 3 June, Trent Bridge, Nottingham

• Vs Bangladesh, Saturday 8 June, Cardiff Wales Stadium, Cardiff

• Vs West Indies, Friday 14 June, Hampshire Bowl, Southampton

• Vs Afghanistan, Tuesday 18 June, Old Trafford, Manchester

• Vs Sri Lanka, Friday 21 June, Headingly, Leeds

• Vs Australia, Tuesday 25 June, Lord’s, London

• Vs India, Sunday 30 June, Edgbaston, Birmingham

• Vs New Zealand, Wednesday 3 July, The Riverside Durham, Chester-le-Street

Key players

Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow have formed the best opening partnership in ODI cricket and often set England on their way to posting impressive totals. Both men are able to hit a quick century with ease to set England on their way with a good start and remain safe in the knowledge that if they get out early, that there is a string of talent to come after them.

Captain

Eoin Morgan deserves huge credit for transforming this side and helping produce a culture of fearless and exciting cricket. The Dublin-born big-hitter rarely slips up with his selection or any decision on the field while maintaining a superb strike-rate.

One to watch

Jofra Archer was made to wait for a long time before he could finally represent England and has wasted no time in making up with the years he spent waiting. The fast bowler was not initially named in the preliminary World Cup squad but impressed selectors during the series win against Pakistan. Having a bowler that can attack with speeds of over 90mph in a consistent way is an area that England have lacked depth in and his power can make a huge difference.

Odds to win

2/1

Prediction

It is very hard to see a weakness in this side and therefore it is not unreasonable to suggest that only a complete disaster will stand in the way of England winning the World Cup.