England Cricket managing director Robert Key might have defended his team and their performance following their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/dismal-england-end-champions-trophy-2025-campaign-on-winless-note-as-south-africa-win-group-b-8769237" rel="dofollow">embarrassing exit</a> from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> but came down hard on English players for forgetting to draw a line during media interactions. Though they can still put behind such results with better performances in upcoming series, what will hurt them is the social media flak for some of their players' unnecessary remarks.
England was placed in Group B alongside Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan, losing to all three and exiting the tournament with zero points. Though their ODI woes seem to swell up a bit after this result, Key is keen on making right calls to bring their One-Day cricket back on track, wanting to start with something unrelated to the on-field game &ndash; the media interactions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ben-stokes-to-lead-england-in-odis-rob-key-backs-all-rounder-to-succeed-jos-buttler-in-key-role-8828933" rel="dofollow">Ben Stokes to lead England in ODIs? Rob Key backs all-rounder to succeed Jos Buttler in key role</a>
<h2>What happened?</h2>
England toured India for the white-ball leg ahead of the first showpiece event of the year, losing seven of the eight contested matches across two formats. After several media reports of them skipping training sessions throughout the series made headlines, the head coach, Brendon McCullum and then-captain Jos Buttler defended it.&nbsp;
However, what went wrong for them was opener Ben Duckett&rsquo;s remarks after the series conclusion, saying England wouldn&rsquo;t mind losing to India in a bilateral series as long as England beat them in an ICC event final, which was far from what unfolded this time.&nbsp;
Following England&rsquo;s exit from the competition, Key addressed this, saying, "I have no issue with the way our guys go about things. But there's no doubt that we've got to get better when we're doing interviews when players are doing their post-match press conferences; we speak a lot of rubbish a lot of the time.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-rachin-ravindra-receives-highest-praise-from-england-great-ahead-of-champions-trophy-final-against-india-8829780" rel="dofollow">Rachin Ravindra receives highest praise from England great ahead of Champions Trophy showdown</a>
Though Duckett&rsquo;s standout performance (227 runs in three matches) helped him escape fans&rsquo; mocking and backlash on social media, Key said despite every right effort put in to maintain the dressing room&rsquo;s decorum, such remarks are not welcomed.&nbsp;
&ldquo;They're trying so hard to not sort of upset players in the dressing room, not try and give away something that they don't think they should, and then they end up creating headlines through that,&rdquo; Key said in a chat with Sky Sports.&nbsp;
&ldquo;But I don't kill people for the things they say. There's not a world in where we think the players don't care, that they don't want to go and get big scores, that they don't care about winning, that they're arrogant.&nbsp;
"That's absolutely not true. Half the time when they're getting themselves into trouble it's because they're actually trying to concentrate so hard that they end up making mistakes,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: England was placed in Group B alongside Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan, losing to all three and exiting the tournament with zero points.

England Cricket managing director Robert Key might have defended his team and their performance following their embarrassing exit from the Champions Trophy 2025 but came down hard on English players for forgetting to draw a line during media interactions. Though they can still put behind such results with better performances in upcoming series, what will hurt them is the social media flak for some of their players' unnecessary remarks. England was placed in Group B alongside Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan, losing to all three and exiting the tournament with zero points. Though their ODI woes seem to swell up a bit after this result, Key is keen on making right calls to bring their One-Day cricket back on track, wanting to start with something unrelated to the on-field game – the media interactions. Also read | Ben Stokes to lead England in ODIs? Rob Key backs all-rounder to succeed Jos Buttler in key role What happened? England toured India for the white-ball leg ahead of the first showpiece event of the year, losing seven of the eight contested matches across two formats. After several media reports of them skipping training sessions throughout the series made headlines, the head coach, Brendon McCullum and then-captain Jos Buttler defended it. However, what went wrong for them was opener Ben Duckett’s remarks after the series conclusion, saying England wouldn’t mind losing to India in a bilateral series as long as England beat them in an ICC event final, which was far from what unfolded this time. Following England’s exit from the competition, Key addressed this, saying, "I have no issue with the way our guys go about things. But there's no doubt that we've got to get better when we're doing interviews when players are doing their post-match press conferences; we speak a lot of rubbish a lot of the time.” Also read | Rachin Ravindra receives highest praise from England great ahead of Champions Trophy showdown Though Duckett’s standout performance (227 runs in three matches) helped him escape fans’ mocking and backlash on social media, Key said despite every right effort put in to maintain the dressing room’s decorum, such remarks are not welcomed. “They're trying so hard to not sort of upset players in the dressing room, not try and give away something that they don't think they should, and then they end up creating headlines through that,” Key said in a chat with Sky Sports. “But I don't kill people for the things they say. There's not a world in where we think the players don't care, that they don't want to go and get big scores, that they don't care about winning, that they're arrogant. "That's absolutely not true. Half the time when they're getting themselves into trouble it's because they're actually trying to concentrate so hard that they end up making mistakes,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

“We speak a lot of rubbish” – ECB boss warns England players to maintain caution with media

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach.&nbsp;

Since Matthew Mott’s resignation following England’s failed campaigns in the past two ICC events, the ECB is seeking a high-profile name to replace him at the top, with Morgan feeling McCullum is the lead contender, calling him ‘one of the best in the world’.

The ECB confirmed the change at the top after England failed to defend their crown in the T20 World Cup in the Americas under Mott, losing to eventual winners India in the semis.&nbsp;

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The 2019 WC winners also got knocked out of the group stages during the 2023 World Cup, losing to Australia, India and Afghanistan. Mott stepped down last week after two years in charge of England’s white-ball side.

Speaking of the changes the ECB must bring to ensure England stays at the top of the white-ball side, Morgan suggested a few big names to take over.

"In my eyes, at the moment, you would go to Rahul Dravid, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Brendon McCullum," Morgan said during a chat with Sky Sports.

“I say that because I believe he is one of the best coaches in the world. You can see what he did with the England Test team.

"Yes, the big question will be how he makes it fit over the course of the 12 months, but from Rob Key's point of view, he needs to make the job attractive,” he continued.

Stating clearly why the board must appoint a proven coach and not bring in someone new, Morgan said, "The option is not to have someone come in and let them grow in the job. You're talking about winning World Cups and winning Champions trophies.

"This is not an opportunity for a young guy to come in. You want the best person on the planet to come in and help Jos Buttler and the England cricket team get better,” the former England captain noted.

<h2>Dravid is out of job</h2>

The former India great and a T20 World Cup-winning coach, Rahul Dravid, has been out of work since his contract ended with the Indian Team in July.&nbsp;Although the BCCI offered him a new contract, Dravid declined, citing spending more time with family as one of the reasons.

Meanwhile, Dravid is not seeking a full-time job, but earlier reports suggested that he remains in the fray to coach an IPL team&nbsp;next season onwards.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach.

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach. Since Matthew Mott’s resignation following England’s failed campaigns in the past two ICC events, the ECB is seeking a high-profile name to replace him at the top, with Morgan feeling McCullum is the lead contender, calling him ‘one of the best in the world’. The ECB confirmed the change at the top after England failed to defend their crown in the T20 World Cup in the Americas under Mott, losing to eventual winners India in the semis. ALSO READ: IPL franchises urge two-year ban on foreign players for pulling out of season without legitimate cause The 2019 WC winners also got knocked out of the group stages during the 2023 World Cup, losing to Australia, India and Afghanistan. Mott stepped down last week after two years in charge of England’s white-ball side. Speaking of the changes the ECB must bring to ensure England stays at the top of the white-ball side, Morgan suggested a few big names to take over. "In my eyes, at the moment, you would go to Rahul Dravid, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Brendon McCullum," Morgan said during a chat with Sky Sports. “I say that because I believe he is one of the best coaches in the world. You can see what he did with the England Test team. "Yes, the big question will be how he makes it fit over the course of the 12 months, but from Rob Key's point of view, he needs to make the job attractive,” he continued. Stating clearly why the board must appoint a proven coach and not bring in someone new, Morgan said, "The option is not to have someone come in and let them grow in the job. You're talking about winning World Cups and winning Champions trophies. "This is not an opportunity for a young guy to come in. You want the best person on the planet to come in and help Jos Buttler and the England cricket team get better,” the former England captain noted. Dravid is out of job The former India great and a T20 World Cup-winning coach, Rahul Dravid, has been out of work since his contract ended with the Indian Team in July. Although the BCCI offered him a new contract, Dravid declined, citing spending more time with family as one of the reasons. Meanwhile, Dravid is not seeking a full-time job, but earlier reports suggested that he remains in the fray to coach an IPL team next season onwards. (With inputs from agencies)

Eoin Morgan picks Rahul Dravid, Brendon McCullum as options for England’s white-ball coach

Be it the introduction of Bazball Cricket or Kookaburra balls in the County Championship, ECB is leaving no stone unturned to ensure England becomes the best Test team in the world.

Be it the introduction of Bazball Cricket or Kookaburra balls in the County Championship, ECB is leaving no stone unturned to ensure England becomes the best Test team in the world. Having already made waves with the ultra-attacking brand of cricket in the longer format, the ECB is now working towards preparing its bowlers for all conditions by making them bowl with Kookaburra and not Duke Balls in the early stages of County Championships. The use of the Kookaburra ball, dominantly played with during overseas series, was recommended in Sir Andrew Strauss' high-performance review in 2022 and was trialled last year had replaced the traditional Dukes Ball in the first two rounds of the County Championship this season. This change saw mixed reactions from the pundits, with some calling this a masterstroke, while others bashing it, calling it the ‘worst decision ever’. ECB’s Director of Cricket, Robert Key, has backed this idea of using the Kookaburra ball to ensure the bowlers, who cannot bowl express pace, must get used to this ball’s dynamics. Unlike the Dukes that assist seam and swing bowling, a preferred choice in the UK, given the conditions, Key insists that the usage of Kookaburra, which has a less prominent seam and goes softer earlier, will push the bowlers to become creative with their craft and master it by the time they get an international call-up. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: ‘MS Dhoni is a special person’ – KL Rahul recalls best moment with India legend ahead of LSG-CSK tie "My view is, the better the conditions for batting, the more you find out about your bowlers," Key said on Sky Sports Cricket Podcast. "Bowlers are so important in winning games. Batsmen set up games, and bowlers are the ones that win it." “I also believe that for us to have a great era of English cricket, which everyone in these sorts of jobs wants, it's about bowlers and being able to produce - not necessarily 95mph bowlers, but it's clear that for the best teams, it's sort of 85mph plus,” he continued. ‘We need to be best in this format’ Commenting on the criticism it has received, with former England great Alec Stewart calling it a mistake, Key feels with greater risks come greater rewards. "Playing against a Kookaburra in England is nothing like playing against it in South Africa or Australia," Stewart said. "The surfaces are different." "Our point of difference playing here is the Dukes ball, so why are we not playing here, being the best we can be with the Dukes ball so that when the touring sides come over, we hammer them." Meanwhile, Key said he must find ways to ensure England gets better in Tests, not just at home but outside too. "My view is that we sort of think, in our home conditions, we dominate - which a lot of teams do at the moment - but the truth is that England have been a middling Test team for 40-plus years. "I want us to go out there and be the best team in the world and have a really good era... and it's about trying to find ways of doing that,” Key concluded.

ECB's Robert Key explains how use of Kookaburra ball in County can help England become top Test team

England’s managing director, Robert Key, believes former all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has it in him to become an excellent head coach one day. Key believes Flintoff has this natural similar gift for man-management to that of Ben Stokes and Test coach Brendon McCullum and can run for the position any time he wishes to.

Key, considered to be a close friend of Flintoff, helped him return to the public eye following a dreadful accident he suffered while shooting an episode of Top Gear in December 2022.&nbsp;

Flintoff was roped in for an unpaid role in England’s white-ball setup for their away tour against New Zealand. Later, he mentored the England Lions before becoming head coach of Northern Superchargers for this year's Hundred.

Speaking to the local publication The Telegraph, Key revealed that Flintoff is added to England’s backroom staff for the T20 World Cup later in June. Reflecting on this call, Key said he firmly believes, with the knowledge and cricketing sense he has, Flintoff will make a top-notch head coach one day.

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"Without question, I think he would be an excellent head coach," Key said.

"Who knows where he ends up in the future? He will be a worthy candidate going forward. When that time comes and whoever is in this job, and it might be outside of my time, they would be stupid not to look at him," Key added.

<h2>'He is a leader like Stokes'</h2>

Having undergone several surgeries during his playing career, Flintoff knows more about setbacks than most players around. Speaking on the same lines, Key said such instances in his life helped him develop the emotional intelligence that will help him deal with high-pressure situations better.&nbsp;

Key also mentioned that Flintoff has a smart head on his shoulders and has leadership skills as Stokes.

"Flintoff is a leader like [Ben] Stokes," Key said. "Just having someone who knows what it is like to struggle and come out the other end is so relatable to those players. When they have had a bad day he can explain it. He is one of those people when he talks to you, he is working you out.

"He has high emotional intelligence, so he understands when you need a bit of an arm around your shoulder or blunt honesty. Those are the skills that make a great leader. Leadership is about making the people around you feel better, and he is someone who is like that. He has a lot to offer,” ECB’s Key added.&nbsp;

England’s managing director, Robert Key, believes former all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has it in him to become an excellent head coach one day. Key believes Flintoff has this natural similar gift for man-management to that of Ben Stokes and Test coach Brendon McCullum and can run for the position any time he wishes to.

England’s managing director, Robert Key, believes former all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has it in him to become an excellent head coach one day. Key believes Flintoff has this natural similar gift for man-management to that of Ben Stokes and Test coach Brendon McCullum and can run for the position any time he wishes to. Key, considered to be a close friend of Flintoff, helped him return to the public eye following a dreadful accident he suffered while shooting an episode of Top Gear in December 2022. Flintoff was roped in for an unpaid role in England’s white-ball setup for their away tour against New Zealand. Later, he mentored the England Lions before becoming head coach of Northern Superchargers for this year's Hundred. Speaking to the local publication The Telegraph, Key revealed that Flintoff is added to England’s backroom staff for the T20 World Cup later in June. Reflecting on this call, Key said he firmly believes, with the knowledge and cricketing sense he has, Flintoff will make a top-notch head coach one day. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: 'Jittery, nervous, excited' - Delhi Capitals' captain Rishabh Pant ahead of opener vs PBKS "Without question, I think he would be an excellent head coach," Key said. "Who knows where he ends up in the future? He will be a worthy candidate going forward. When that time comes and whoever is in this job, and it might be outside of my time, they would be stupid not to look at him," Key added. 'He is a leader like Stokes' Having undergone several surgeries during his playing career, Flintoff knows more about setbacks than most players around. Speaking on the same lines, Key said such instances in his life helped him develop the emotional intelligence that will help him deal with high-pressure situations better. Key also mentioned that Flintoff has a smart head on his shoulders and has leadership skills as Stokes. "Flintoff is a leader like [Ben] Stokes," Key said. "Just having someone who knows what it is like to struggle and come out the other end is so relatable to those players. When they have had a bad day he can explain it. He is one of those people when he talks to you, he is working you out. "He has high emotional intelligence, so he understands when you need a bit of an arm around your shoulder or blunt honesty. Those are the skills that make a great leader. Leadership is about making the people around you feel better, and he is someone who is like that. He has a lot to offer,” ECB’s Key added.

'Andrew Flintoff is a leader like Stokes, he’d be an excellent head coach one day,' says ECB’s Robert Key

Defending champions England crashed out of the World Cup 2023 with just three wins from nine matches. England’s director of men’s cricket, Robert Key, took responsibility for the team’s below-par showing in India while backing the head coach, Matthew Mott and captain, Jos Buttler, saying it’s not their fault.

England’s title defence was down in the mud owing to mediocre performances with bat and ball throughout the tournament.&nbsp;

After suffering a defeat in the curtain-raiser against New Zealand by eight wickets, England beat Bangladesh in their next match. They lost their next five games, including one against Afghanistan in Delhi.&nbsp;

Though they were knocked out of the tournament by then, twin wins over the Netherlands and Pakistan helped England finish inside the top eight, earning them direct qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-like-inzamam-rohit-has-ample-time-against-pacers-hes-different-than-kohli-babar-wasim-akram-657960">World Cup - Like Inzamam, Rohit has ample time against pacers; he’s different than Kohli, Babar: Wasim Akram</a>

With England registering their worst-ever show at the World Cups with six losses in the league matches, Key, who had arrived in India ahead of the Pakistan match, said he was taking all the calls, including prioritising Tests since his arrival.

England achieved unbelievable results in Test cricket, but with them playing lesser ODIs, mainly outside of England, it didn’t help the cause, as the results are there for everyone to see.

"I look at what I've not done rather than blaming everyone else. I hold myself accountable for a lot," he said. &nbsp;"Since I've started this job, it's very hard for me to be critical of Jos Buttler and Matthew Mott when I'm the one who, every single time a decision has been made around whether or not we focus on 50-over cricket, Test cricket or T20, I've always chosen Test cricket.&nbsp;

"When there was a choice in Pakistan over who got the best players, I've always said, 'Sorry, Test cricket gets that focus at the moment'. The same thing in South Africa. I've always chosen Test cricket. It's not easy for coaches and captains when you haven't got the ability to plan and have your best team,” Key added.

<h2>They have my backing&nbsp;- Key</h2>

To stick around with the white-ball teams in these testing times, Captain Jos Buttler said he wants to continue leading England post the World Cup, while Mott has Key’s backing as the head coach.

"That's not their fault. So, I feel like it's harsh if I turn around and blame the captain and coach. Really, I hold myself at the top of that list for what's gone wrong on this trip,” Key said.

"As far as I'm concerned, he gets my full backing. He's the person to get the first opportunity to put that right," he added. "But it's certainly not a case of saying 'carry on, let's keep doing everything the same and get the same result'.

Meanwhile, England will now travel to the Caribbean for the white-ball series, the squads for which were announced earlier.

Defending champions England crashed out of the World Cup 2023 with just three wins from nine matches. England’s director of men’s cricket, Robert Key, took responsibility for the team’s below-par showing in India while backing the head coach, Matthew Mott and captain, Jos Buttler, saying it’s not their fault.

Defending champions England crashed out of the World Cup 2023 with just three wins from nine matches. England’s director of men’s cricket, Robert Key, took responsibility for the team’s below-par showing in India while backing the head coach, Matthew Mott and captain, Jos Buttler, saying it’s not their fault. England’s title defence was down in the mud owing to mediocre performances with bat and ball throughout the tournament. After suffering a defeat in the curtain-raiser against New Zealand by eight wickets, England beat Bangladesh in their next match. They lost their next five games, including one against Afghanistan in Delhi. Though they were knocked out of the tournament by then, twin wins over the Netherlands and Pakistan helped England finish inside the top eight, earning them direct qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy. ALSO READ: World Cup - Like Inzamam, Rohit has ample time against pacers; he’s different than Kohli, Babar: Wasim Akram With England registering their worst-ever show at the World Cups with six losses in the league matches, Key, who had arrived in India ahead of the Pakistan match, said he was taking all the calls, including prioritising Tests since his arrival. England achieved unbelievable results in Test cricket, but with them playing lesser ODIs, mainly outside of England, it didn’t help the cause, as the results are there for everyone to see. "I look at what I've not done rather than blaming everyone else. I hold myself accountable for a lot," he said. "Since I've started this job, it's very hard for me to be critical of Jos Buttler and Matthew Mott when I'm the one who, every single time a decision has been made around whether or not we focus on 50-over cricket, Test cricket or T20, I've always chosen Test cricket. "When there was a choice in Pakistan over who got the best players, I've always said, 'Sorry, Test cricket gets that focus at the moment'. The same thing in South Africa. I've always chosen Test cricket. It's not easy for coaches and captains when you haven't got the ability to plan and have your best team,” Key added. They have my backing - Key To stick around with the white-ball teams in these testing times, Captain Jos Buttler said he wants to continue leading England post the World Cup, while Mott has Key’s backing as the head coach. "That's not their fault. So, I feel like it's harsh if I turn around and blame the captain and coach. Really, I hold myself at the top of that list for what's gone wrong on this trip,” Key said. "As far as I'm concerned, he gets my full backing. He's the person to get the first opportunity to put that right," he added. "But it's certainly not a case of saying 'carry on, let's keep doing everything the same and get the same result'. Meanwhile, England will now travel to the Caribbean for the white-ball series, the squads for which were announced earlier.

Not their fault, I hold myself accountable: ECB's Rob Key backs Matthew Mott, Buttler over poor CWC show

England captain Jos Buttler is frustrated with his and his team’s performance in the ongoing World Cup 2023, but remains firm to continue leading the team in the T20Is and ODIs, starting with the Caribbean tour later this year. With questions raised over Buttler’s leadership after what transpired in this marquee event, the England veteran plans to speak with decision-makers about his future.&nbsp;

England’s 160-run win over the Netherlands helped them climb up on the points table to the seventh position with better NRR than three other eliminated teams – Dutch, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. It means even if Pakistan beat England on Saturday, the defending champions will be among the top eight sides, qualifying for the 2025 Champions Trophy.&nbsp;

Robert Key, England's managing director of men's cricket, will land in India soon, and Buttler and the coaching staff plan to sit and have constructive conversations around future of English cricket, considering next year’s T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.

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"I'd like to [lead in the Caribbean]," Buttler said. "I know Rob Key arrives in India today. We can have some good conversations with him and the coach and everyone, and make a plan for that tour. But yeah, I'd like to."

Regarded as one of white ball’s greatest batters, Buttler had a torrid time in this CWC campaign, managing 111 runs from eight innings, averaging 13.87. His five off 11 against the Netherlands added salt to the injury. Visibly frustrated with his form, Buttler admitted he was meant to lead from the front but hasn’t happened.

"You want to lead from the front and do that in your own performance," Buttler said. "I'll stick to the stuff that's served me well over a long period of time when I've had these little runs of form and hopefully I'll come out the other side of it very soon."

<h2>ECB likely to pick younger white-ball squad for Caribbean tour</h2>

Most of the CWC-bound players are likely to sit out of the West Indies’ white-ball series as the ECB is likely to pick a relatively younger squad, with Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Will Jacks and Rehan Ahmed to return to the set-up.&nbsp;

Considering England’s T20I scheduling that will see them play limited matches before next year’s event, the onus would fall on preparing a strong team for the title defence, with Buttler and coach Matthew Mott stern to stick around.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, England will lock horns with Pakistan in their last league game on Saturday.

England captain Jos Buttler is frustrated with his and his team’s performance in the ongoing World Cup 2023, but remains firm to continue leading the team in the T20Is and ODIs, starting with the Caribbean tour later this year.

England captain Jos Buttler is frustrated with his and his team’s performance in the ongoing World Cup 2023, but remains firm to continue leading the team in the T20Is and ODIs, starting with the Caribbean tour later this year. With questions raised over Buttler’s leadership after what transpired in this marquee event, the England veteran plans to speak with decision-makers about his future. England’s 160-run win over the Netherlands helped them climb up on the points table to the seventh position with better NRR than three other eliminated teams – Dutch, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. It means even if Pakistan beat England on Saturday, the defending champions will be among the top eight sides, qualifying for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Robert Key, England's managing director of men's cricket, will land in India soon, and Buttler and the coaching staff plan to sit and have constructive conversations around future of English cricket, considering next year’s T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. ALSO READ: ODI World Cup 2023: How can India vs Pakistan contest take place in the semifinal? | Know More "I'd like to [lead in the Caribbean]," Buttler said. "I know Rob Key arrives in India today. We can have some good conversations with him and the coach and everyone, and make a plan for that tour. But yeah, I'd like to." Regarded as one of white ball’s greatest batters, Buttler had a torrid time in this CWC campaign, managing 111 runs from eight innings, averaging 13.87. His five off 11 against the Netherlands added salt to the injury. Visibly frustrated with his form, Buttler admitted he was meant to lead from the front but hasn’t happened. "You want to lead from the front and do that in your own performance," Buttler said. "I'll stick to the stuff that's served me well over a long period of time when I've had these little runs of form and hopefully I'll come out the other side of it very soon." ECB likely to pick younger white-ball squad for Caribbean tour Most of the CWC-bound players are likely to sit out of the West Indies’ white-ball series as the ECB is likely to pick a relatively younger squad, with Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Will Jacks and Rehan Ahmed to return to the set-up. Considering England’s T20I scheduling that will see them play limited matches before next year’s event, the onus would fall on preparing a strong team for the title defence, with Buttler and coach Matthew Mott stern to stick around. Meanwhile, England will lock horns with Pakistan in their last league game on Saturday.

'Frustrated' Jos Buttler wants to continue leading England in T20Is, ODIs following World Cup slump

Former England bowler Steve Harmison finds no sense in the team playing Ben Stokes despite getting knocked out of the World Cup 2023. Harmison argues knowing Ben is confirmed to undergo knee surgery following the marquee event, and England must send him home to protect him and prepare him for the India Tests in January next year. England is due to face the Netherlands and Pakistan in their remaining two matches.

Harmison added it requires strong leadership to let Stokes leave the World Cup at this hour and head home for surgery on his troubled left knee. The lanky seamer suggested it should be ECB's director of men's cricket, Robert Key, to step ahead and take this call.

"I am amazed Ben is still in the country, I don't see any point in him being there," Harmison told PA.

"I'm sure that conversation has been had but it needs strong leadership. It needs someone to say, 'Ben, you're going home. Here's a ticket, there's the plane, get on it'.

"I think Rob Key, as director of cricket, should probably take that decision and if I was (Test coach) Brendon McCullum I'd be doing everything I could to encourage him,” Harmison added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-he-doesnt-have-class-abdul-razzaq-on-star-pakistan-batter-failing-to-win-games-on-his-own-656136">World Cup 2023 - He doesn’t have class: Abdul Razzaq on star Pakistan batter failing to win games on his own</a>

Stokes has had issues with his left knee since the Ashes this year, where he bowled for limited-overs only. Following the home Ashes that ended with a 2-2 result, Stokes came out of ODI retirement to feature in the showpiece event, where he played as a specialist batter.&nbsp;

"I've got a good relationship with Ben, and I know for a fact he won't thank me for saying this, but I'm saying it because it's what is best for the England cricket team. It's common sense," Harmison added.

<h2>He is the most important player in Test line-up</h2>

Arguing that Stokes is the single-most-important player in the Test squad that has taken the world by storm with its newest playing style, which everyone calls Bazball.&nbsp;

Harmison noted that it’s important for Stokes to get some rest after going under the knife, and for which he must head home now.

"You never know what they are going to find with a big op, or what the rehab looks like," added Harmison. "So, give yourself the extra time because it could be the difference between being fully fit for the first Test or the third.

"The single most important person in that Test set-up is Ben Stokes. They need their leader, and that's why he has to go home. This tour is going to be twice as hard as the Ashes given the conditions, so he's going to be more important than ever,” the former seamer added.

England’s tour of India in 2024 –

<ul>
	<li>First Test - January 25-29 (Hyderabad)</li>
	<li>Second Test - February 2-6 (Vizag)</li>
	<li>Third Test - February 15-19 (Rajkot)</li>
	<li>Fourth Test - February 23-27 (Ranchi)</li>
	<li>Fifth Test - March 7-11 (Dharamsala)</li>
</ul>

Former England bowler Steve Harmison finds no sense in the team playing Ben Stokes despite getting knocked out of the World Cup 2023. Harmison argues knowing Ben is confirmed to undergo knee surgery following the marquee event, and England must send him home to protect him and prepare him for the India Tests in January next year.

Former England bowler Steve Harmison finds no sense in the team playing Ben Stokes despite getting knocked out of the World Cup 2023. Harmison argues knowing Ben is confirmed to undergo knee surgery following the marquee event, and England must send him home to protect him and prepare him for the India Tests in January next year. England is due to face the Netherlands and Pakistan in their remaining two matches. Harmison added it requires strong leadership to let Stokes leave the World Cup at this hour and head home for surgery on his troubled left knee. The lanky seamer suggested it should be ECB's director of men's cricket, Robert Key, to step ahead and take this call. "I am amazed Ben is still in the country, I don't see any point in him being there," Harmison told PA. "I'm sure that conversation has been had but it needs strong leadership. It needs someone to say, 'Ben, you're going home. Here's a ticket, there's the plane, get on it'. "I think Rob Key, as director of cricket, should probably take that decision and if I was (Test coach) Brendon McCullum I'd be doing everything I could to encourage him,” Harmison added. ALSO READ: World Cup 2023 - He doesn’t have class: Abdul Razzaq on star Pakistan batter failing to win games on his own Stokes has had issues with his left knee since the Ashes this year, where he bowled for limited-overs only. Following the home Ashes that ended with a 2-2 result, Stokes came out of ODI retirement to feature in the showpiece event, where he played as a specialist batter. "I've got a good relationship with Ben, and I know for a fact he won't thank me for saying this, but I'm saying it because it's what is best for the England cricket team. It's common sense," Harmison added. He is the most important player in Test line-up Arguing that Stokes is the single-most-important player in the Test squad that has taken the world by storm with its newest playing style, which everyone calls Bazball. Harmison noted that it’s important for Stokes to get some rest after going under the knife, and for which he must head home now. "You never know what they are going to find with a big op, or what the rehab looks like," added Harmison. "So, give yourself the extra time because it could be the difference between being fully fit for the first Test or the third. "The single most important person in that Test set-up is Ben Stokes. They need their leader, and that's why he has to go home. This tour is going to be twice as hard as the Ashes given the conditions, so he's going to be more important than ever,” the former seamer added. England’s tour of India in 2024 – First Test - January 25-29 (Hyderabad) Second Test - February 2-6 (Vizag) Third Test - February 15-19 (Rajkot) Fourth Test - February 23-27 (Ranchi) Fifth Test - March 7-11 (Dharamsala)

Protect Ben Stokes for India Tests and send him home from World Cup: Steve Harmison to England management

England’s World Cup title defence is down to ashes as they are on the brink of a World Cup exit following their fourth loss in six matches thus far. Although Matthew Mott,&nbsp;England’s head coach, remains concerned about his side’s dismal run despite all the talent and resources available, he is sure of turning the tables in the remaining matches as England gear up for a Super-Sunday clash against host India in Lucknow.

England’s latest defeat came at the hands of Sri Lanka in Bengaluru, a team that has beaten England on past four straight occasions in World Cups. However, less for the result and more for the efforts put into the match, Matt expressed his concerns whilst admitting everyone’s position comes under scrutiny following such results.

In May 2022, Rob Key – England’s managing director of men’s cricket, appointed Mott on a four-year contract, with strict instructions that he’d be judged on the team’s performances in the ICC events and not by results in bilateral series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arthur-urges-pcb-to-stop-witch-hunt-in-wake-of-pakistans-poor-run-backs-team-to-come-back-stronger-in-cwc-652267">Arthur urges PCB to stop ‘witch-hunt’ in wake of Pakistan’s poor run, backs team to come back stronger in CWC</a>

"Jos and I are incredibly aligned and united," Mott said after England's latest defeat, an eight-wicket thrashing by Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

"Rob Key has been an amazing support to us [but] when you lose tournaments like this, everyone's under scrutiny; everyone's place will be questioned.

"I'm fully determined that we can turn this around. I've got great faith in Jos: he's hurting now, and he'll be feeling like there's a lot on him. I certainly feel like I could have done things a lot better. But I've been in the job for 18 months: we've won a World Cup and lost a World Cup. I think I've shown the capability that I can coach this team,” he added.

<h2>India favourites in Lucknow – Mott</h2>

England’s head coach is aware of the challenge that awaits them – the high-flying Indian Team. The Men in Blue are the team to beat in this tournament, having won all five matches, and have beaten&nbsp;Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand among the top sides.

Mott feels for England to restore pride, they must go all guns blazing against India in Lucknow and win the match.

"[They] are probably raging favourites at the moment," Mott said. "That's an opportunity to restore some pride and confidence in the group, and every opportunity we get to play together is vital now to try and find our mojo again."

On what he thinks is England’s priority at the moment, Mott said, "We'll just try and keep picking our best side for the conditions - as we've tried to do all the way throughout.&nbsp;

"What we need to get our heads around is restoring pride… that is our first priority at the moment: to make sure we come out and give India a good scrap, and hopefully perform a lot better than we have,” the head coach added.

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England’s World Cup title defence is down to ashes as they are on the brink of a World Cup exit following their fourth loss in six matches thus far. Although Matthew Mott, England’s head coach, remains concerned about his side’s dismal run despite all the talent and resources available, he is sure of turning the tables in the remaining matches as England gear up for a Super-Sunday clash against host India in Lucknow.

England’s World Cup title defence is down to ashes as they are on the brink of a World Cup exit following their fourth loss in six matches thus far. Although Matthew Mott, England’s head coach, remains concerned about his side’s dismal run despite all the talent and resources available, he is sure of turning the tables in the remaining matches as England gear up for a Super-Sunday clash against host India in Lucknow. England’s latest defeat came at the hands of Sri Lanka in Bengaluru, a team that has beaten England on past four straight occasions in World Cups. However, less for the result and more for the efforts put into the match, Matt expressed his concerns whilst admitting everyone’s position comes under scrutiny following such results. In May 2022, Rob Key – England’s managing director of men’s cricket, appointed Mott on a four-year contract, with strict instructions that he’d be judged on the team’s performances in the ICC events and not by results in bilateral series. ALSO READ: Arthur urges PCB to stop ‘witch-hunt’ in wake of Pakistan’s poor run, backs team to come back stronger in CWC "Jos and I are incredibly aligned and united," Mott said after England's latest defeat, an eight-wicket thrashing by Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. "Rob Key has been an amazing support to us [but] when you lose tournaments like this, everyone's under scrutiny; everyone's place will be questioned. "I'm fully determined that we can turn this around. I've got great faith in Jos: he's hurting now, and he'll be feeling like there's a lot on him. I certainly feel like I could have done things a lot better. But I've been in the job for 18 months: we've won a World Cup and lost a World Cup. I think I've shown the capability that I can coach this team,” he added. India favourites in Lucknow – Mott England’s head coach is aware of the challenge that awaits them – the high-flying Indian Team. The Men in Blue are the team to beat in this tournament, having won all five matches, and have beaten Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand among the top sides. Mott feels for England to restore pride, they must go all guns blazing against India in Lucknow and win the match. "[They] are probably raging favourites at the moment," Mott said. "That's an opportunity to restore some pride and confidence in the group, and every opportunity we get to play together is vital now to try and find our mojo again." On what he thinks is England’s priority at the moment, Mott said, "We'll just try and keep picking our best side for the conditions - as we've tried to do all the way throughout. "What we need to get our heads around is restoring pride… that is our first priority at the moment: to make sure we come out and give India a good scrap, and hopefully perform a lot better than we have,” the head coach added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Cup 2023: Beating India will be challenging but we must to restore our pride, says Matthew Mott

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