Big respite for England ahead of World Cup 2019 opener
England have received a big boost ahead of their ICC World Cup 2019 opener against South Africa. Skipper Eoin Morgan, who had suffered a small fracture on his left index finger, is expected to be fully fit ahead of the side's opening clash on May 30. In the same light, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a statement. Here's more.
How did Morgan suffer the injury?
The England captain was training with rest of the team members at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Friday. England are playing against Australia in a warm-up encounter today. The southpaw took a blow during catching drills and injured his finger. X-ray report showed the damage wasn't as much as expected earlier. However, Morgan didn't play the match against the Aussies.
ECB issues statement regarding Morgan
"England captain Eoin Morgan has sustained a small flake fracture to his left index finger. He is expected to make a full recovery and be available for England's opening ICC Men's Cricket World Cup match against South Africa at The Oval on Thursday May 30."
Captain Morgan has inspired England
Morgan has been an inspiring skipper for the Three Lions and has led the side well in the last couple of years. A trusted captain, the 32-year-old has led from the front. He has guided England to the number one status in the ICC ODI Rankings. England have played an aggressive brand of cricket under Morgan, who himself has contributed immensely with the bat.
Morgan has amassed important runs since 2018
Morgan has featured in 222 ODIs and boasts of a sound average of 39.64. He has scored 12 tons and 45 half-centuries. The left-handed batsman was the fourth highest run-scorer for England in ODIs last year. He registered an impressive 756 runs in 22 matches, besides scoring seven fifties. The in-form middle order batsman has already scored 420 runs in 2019.
Morgan was solid in the series against Pakistan
Morgan was in superb form in the recently concluded ODI series against Pakistan. England thrashed the Asian side by a whopping 4-0 margin. Morgan, who is known to be a versatile player, amassed scores of 71*, 17* and 76 in the three matches he batted in. He is a crucial force at number four for England. Morgan can power them consistently past 300 runs.
This is England's best chance to win the World Cup
England will be aiming to win their first major ICC World Cup trophy. This is probably their best chance. Under Morgan, the side looks consistent and will be a strong force at home. They have dominated the 50-over format and it will take something special to stop them. Morgan's decision-making is desirable and he looks assured. It's a positive phase for the hosts.
