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The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is set to kick off on October 5, featuring the inaugural clash between defending champions England and New Zealand, hosted at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
As the cricketing world buzzes with excitement ahead of this monumental event, Jos Buttler, recently took the stage to address a press conference, fielding questions with composure and wit.
In a light-hearted moment during the conference, a journalist posed a rather amusing query about the possible inclusion of veteran pacers James Anderson and Stuart Broad in England‘s ODI World Cup squad.
This unexpected twist in the dialogue prompted an infectious eruption of laughter, with even the skipper joining in on the joviality.
Also READ: England ODI World Cup 2023 schedule and squad – Date, Match-time, Team List & Live Streaming details
Buttler’s Reply
Buttler appeared visibly surprised, considering that Anderson and Broad had been excluded from England’s white-ball cricket plans for the past eight years.
Nonetheless, he managed to suppress his laughter and provided a composed response, clarifying that Anderson remained eligible for selection while confirming that Broad had retired, having not participated in the format since 2015.
“I think Jimmy is still available for selection. He has not played since 2015 and I don’t think Stuart has either even though he has retired. Those two guys unfortunately won’t be a part of this tournament. But yes we do have a really good side of fast bowlers, spinners – a nicely-balanced team,” Buttler said.
The wicketkeeper-batter is stepping into the captain’s role for the first time in the ODI World Cup. A pivotal challenge awaits as he shoulders the responsibility of defending the esteemed title.
England will take on Bangladesh in their second CWC 2023 game on October 10 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Stadium, Dharamshala.