David Willey criticises ECB for attempting to fast track Jofra Archer in the World Cup 2019 squad

England is abuzz with the prospects of Barbados born all-rounder David Willey being included into the World Cup squad as soon as he becomes eligible to play for his adopted country. The all-rounder has represented West Indies at the junior level and U19. Archer chose to represent England since his mother is British and hence has been part of England domestic scene.

Archer made name for himself in England county cricket as a fast bowler capable of hitting 150 kmph easily and for being a handy hard-hitting batsman down the order. Archer has played in T20 leagues all over the world, including the Big Bash League and the Indian Premier League and has found success everywhere.

Willey shares his opinion

ECB has lowered its eligibility period from seven years to three years, meaning Archer will be available to play for England before World Cup starts. The bowling all-rounder is yet to play an international match and has only appeared in 14 List A matches and will become eligible in a few days’ time.

However, there have been voices of discontent amongst some of the players who are questioning this move of the England and Wales Cricket Board for including Archer into the team. One such player questioning this move is David Willey, who has been a part of England team for a good 2-3 years in mostly T20I format.

Willey said that there has been a bunch of players who have worked hard on making the England team the no.1 in rankings in the ODI format and bringing in someone just because they have become eligible may not be the best idea. Willey was quoted by ESPNCricinfo, saying, “It’s an interesting dilemma for the captain, coaches, and selectors.

It’s a group of players that have been together for three or four years now that have got us to No.1. And there’s a reason for that. Whether someone should just walk in at the drop of a hat because they’re available, whether that’s the right thing, I don’t know.”

Archer threat to many other all-rounders vying a place 

David Willey is one of the players whose spot in ODI team is threatened by the inclusion of Jofra Archer in the World Cup plans of ECB. Willey had last played an ODI in July 2018 and since then, has been surpassed by Chris Woakes in the pecking order, but Willey has not lost hope.

“The reason I’ve played as much white-ball cricket around the world as I have done is my ability to swing the ball up front and being a left-armer as well. It is a bonus being able to do that and I need to continue to do that and also have an impact in other areas as well,” he said.

Willey mentioned that he doesn’t know Archer well and couldn’t comment on his record in white-ball cricket. He also said that selection is something that one has to accept and move on. The best way to ensure your selection is to go out there and perform in the middle.

Talking about his chances, Willey was further quoted as saying: “I think I went quite well last summer in English conditions but you never know. There is plenty of competition for places so you don’t quite know where they are going to go in the balance of the squad and bowling attack.”

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