‘They are mentally stronger than the rest’ – Michael Vaughan shows optimism over England's chances at World Cup 2023

England's recent performance in a warm-up clash against Bangladesh was nothing short of commendable. Their prowess, especially in the batting department, was on full display, leaving spectators in awe. As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, scheduled to grace the Indian subcontinent from October 5 to November 19, the defending champions, England, find themselves in the spotlight.

Former England captain and cricket think tank, Michael Vaughan, has thrown his weight behind the English side, expressing his confidence in their ability to retain the coveted World Cup title. Vaughan's astute cricketing acumen underscores the mental tenacity that England bring to the table.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for this group. They can do it because England are very tough mentally. In a difficult situation, one of the players will stand up and do something to drag the team over the line.” He further added, “They generally blow teams away but when it gets spicy – such as the 2019 World Cup final and the must-win games in that tournament – they are mentally stronger than the rest,” Vaughan wrote in his column for The Telegraph

Also check: England vs New Zealand Live Updates, 1st Match, ODI World Cup 2023

Vaughan shows scepticism over England bowlers having advantage in Indian conditions

However, amid the optimism, the 48-year-old's discerning eye has detected a potential challenge on the horizon - England's bowling unit. With Indian pitches historically favouring batters, he raises the question of whether bowlers like Chris Woakes and Sam Curran, who thrive on early movement with the white ball in English conditions, can replicate their success in the subcontinental terrain. 

"The doubt is whether the bowling (can) maximise conditions and take wickets at key times. We know the white ball in the UK does a bit early on and the likes of Chris Woakes and Curran are such a threat. But will the wickets nullify those two?" Vaughan concluded.