alfie wrote:I think they are looking a very strong chance leading in.
With Stokes making a sixth bowler (I read he's advanced in IPL) there is quite a bit of versatility within the six man attack. If Willey (or whoever) only bowls with the new ball, it doesn't matter. If Wood (or whoever) only bowls in the last 20, that's fine. If Rashid only bowls a spell, that can be accommodated.
I hope they don't pick seven batters, or five seamers. That speaks of a conditioned response and a lack of confidence (though everyone should be conditioned to expect negative outcomes to this reflex). And England having JB1or2 or Stokes coming in at seven is really a downgrading of their ability. Pick a wrist spinner and an orthodox spinner (they all bat) and be flexible and sympathetic in their use. And ignore the typically knee jerk predictability of the commentators and press.
I've seen posters getting Bairstow in the side by dropping Buttler down to seven and squeezing out a bowler. That feels so depressingly fearful and outmoded.
I always say that everybody's right.