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I'd consider us on the slide, rather than still at the top - and it doesn't take much to drop back in this format. Archer is an unknown after his injury. But yes, Wood and Stokes should be there. Depth is lacking - and there was an interesting stat also (maybe in the coverage, or elsewhere) that England give away more runs per over in the last 5 than any other side. Surely that can't be conducive to being a top side?
The rankings are a always bit iffy, as we have seen in the past. And I don't see this England side challenging for honours in the next big tournament. Of course, it could just be down to form and selection complications caused by recent tours. But my gut feeling is that we are in for a torrid time for a while. Very happy if I am wrong.
c00ps-
I mean, that's one way of looking at it. You could also say we've got the best captain, the most destructive batters, 2 world class spin bowlers in the format and an allrounder who's currently more than serviceable with his spin. Our stock of quicks is the one area of uncertainty, but hard to really make a call with 3 first choice options missing. Currans have been very successful in the IPL so add them into the 'missing' pile. We have also just played a team with one of the most formidable mid/lower orders in world cricket whilst missing 7 guaranteed starters if fit/available. It's not looking all that gloomy from where I'm sat...
owl
Exactly as KL says above - how can you possibly consider us not competing at the top table and whilst missing Archer, Wood and Stokes our death bowling options are being explored rather than being shown to be inadequate.