England's head coach Brendon McCullum defended his team's training schedule after criticism following their 3-0 ODI series loss to India. McCullum stated that the decision to skip training sessions before the second and third ODIs was due to a mounting injury list within the squad. He emphasized the importance of keeping players fresh and ensuring a fit team for the upcoming Champions Trophy. The fitness of Ben Duckett, who appeared to struggle with a groin injury during the series, remains uncertain pending a scan. McCullum expressed optimism about other players' recovery, including Jamie Smith, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, and Brydon Carse.
England did not train between second and third ODIsBrendon McCullum has defended England’s training schedule after criticism of his side’s work ethic during their 3-0 one-day international series defeat by India., with the former claiming to have heard that the visitors had only one net session on the entire trip, “if not any”.
Ben Duckett’s fitness is the most significant scare for England heading into the Champions Trophy. The opener appeared to struggle with his groin in the field in Ahmedabad and was a hobbling presence with the bat – though he did strike a 22-ball 34, flaying eight boundaries. He finished the series as England’s leading run-scorer, his rapid starts with Phil Salt one of the few things the tourists had going for them.
The full damage to Duckett remains unclear with a scan required. “We will make that call, work out if he’s going to be at risk, if he’s in or out,” said McCullum. England are already down one southpaw in their squad for the Champions Trophy, with Jacob Bethell’s hamstring injury prompting the call to Tom Banton.
McCullum did have some positive updates, stating that Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton should be available for their tournament opener, against Australia on 22 February, after their respective calf and hamstring problems. Jofra Archer, who has been dealing with a cut on his hand, is also expected to be fine. Regarding Brydon Carse, McCullum added: “Hopefully his toe has healed by then and he’ll be available for the first one as well.
The New Zealander retains belief that England can win the Champions Trophy, despite four consecutive ODI series defeats and 16 losses from their past 23 matches. “I believe we’ve got a squad which, if we’re able to put it all together, is as good or as competitive as anyone else, particularly in the conditions that we’ll face in Pakistan,” he said.
ENGLAND CRICKET CHAMPIONS TROPHY TRAINING SCHEDULE INJURIES BEN DUCKETT
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