Predicted England XI for the 2016 T20 World Cup

The England limited-overs side seems to be a rejuveated one post the 2015 World Cu'The Curious Case of England and ICC events' is one read which will be of high interest. However, England has been considerably one of the better performing teams in the T20 format. Though the English were the progenitors of the Gentleman's game, they have historically been shadowed by the other cricketing powerhouses, especially when it comes to high-profile tournaments. Post their shambolic 2015 World Cup campaign, England seems to have sorted out their plans and are poised to be great challengers to the favorites. Their recent performances back home and the form of many players prove that they are definitely a team in the reckoning.Here is a look at their predicted XI as they prepare to take their flight to India next year for the 2016 World Twenty20.

#1 Jason Roy

Jason Roy can provide the quick-fire starts for England

Often compared to Kevin Pietersen for his ‘switch-hits’, this South Africa-born youngster is a man to look out for. He is someone who is known for his destructive batting at the top of the order and his big shots. He can score at will and can take the match away from the opposition.

He is also a brilliant fielder and can save a few runs with his electric fielding. England’s chances of putting up a big score will largely depend upon this man’s performance.

#2 Alex Hales

Alex Hales celebrates after scoring a century against Sri Lanka in the 2014 World Twenty20

As an opener, it is extremely important for a batsman to understand the conditions and bat accordingly. Alex Hales is probably England’s best bet for that role. Having played the previous T20 World Cup, he will be looking to carry forward his experience onto this edition.

He is also a right-arm medium pacer and can provide his captain an additional choice in the bowling department. At 6’5”, this lad can hit the ball many a mile and already has a T20 international century to his name. His performance at the top will be vital for England.

#3 Moeen Ali

Moeen ali is proving to be quite a useful player for England in all formats

Moeen Ali is the kind of player that England have been looking out for a long time and he is no mood to leave the tag behind. Known for his excellent batting, he went on to develop his bowling too. His off-spinners will play a major role in turning tracks and can pose a major threat.

As a left- handed batsman, he will provide a variation at the top and disturb the bowler’s line and length. Known for his calm persona, he lets his bat and his doosras do the talking.

#4 Eoin Morgan (C)

Morgan is living up to the high standards that is being expected off him

When this talented southpaw first played for England, he was lauded by many as one of the best batsmen England would ever have. He did not prove them wrong and rose up the ranks to become England’s limited-overs captain.

At no.4, he is someone who can play the role of an anchor and also score at a brisk pace. He would want to carry forward his experience of playing in the IPL which will be extremely crucial. His ability to sweep the ball well will hold him in good stead in Indian conditions

#5 Jos Buttler (Wicket-keeper)

With his wide array of shots, Jos Buttler can be the ideal finisher for England

Jos Buttler is one of the finest English Batsmen in recent times and has played a huge role in the team’s resurgence this season. His keeping ability too has come in for much praise and he is willing to improve on every aspect of his game.

He is known for his inventive shots and can take his team past any score once he is set. England would ideally want him to play the role of a finisher and provide the late impetus to post big scores.

#6 Sam Billings

Billings can destroy any bowling attack on his day

Though Sam Billings started off as a wicketkeeper-batsman, his batting exploits were more than enough to make him a regular in the T20 squad. His ability to destroy any bowling attack on his day will be extremely handy as England are set to take on some of the best bowling attacks in the world.

He can also double up as the wicket keeper if required. He is a brilliant fielder and can provide a few magical moments on the field with his agility.

#7 Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes has elevated his game tremendously to be considered a genuine all-rounder

Ben Stokes is one of the few genuine all-rounders currently playing the game. A left-handed batsman and a right arm medium pacer, he can provide the balance that the team requires. He has the ability to score freely and also take a few crucial wickets in the middle overs.

His aggressive style of play and his temperament will make him the player to watch out for and will surely set the sparks flying. He will be looking forward to proving himself and become the hero that England wants.

#8 Adil Rashid

Adil Rashid is yet another versatile player in the england ranks

It is always a treat to watch a leg-spinner bowl with control and invite the batsman to go after him. Adil Rashid is regarded as the most talented young spinner in his country and he does not want to disappoint anyone.

He is also a decent batsman and can hit a few lusty blows during the death overs. He is a tough competitor and will be willing to attack the batsmen with his flight and turn. It will be interesting to see how the other batsmen tackle Rashid.

#9 David Willey

Willey has already grabbed the headlines in his short international career so far

Left -arm pacers are always a challenge to face and this is precisely the reason why most of them go on to become greats of the game. David Willey is one such bowler and his role in the team is extremely crucial.

He has grabbed eyeballs with his unorthodox batting and never say die attitude. With the ability to swing the ball, hit a few big ones and take stunning catches, he is every captain’s dream and it will be interesting to see how Morgan uses him as a lethal weapon.

#10 James Tredwell

Tredwell could be picked considering the conditions in India

At 33, Tredwell is someone who has gone through the grinds of County Cricket and has plenty of experience by his side. In a side packed with aggressive and flamboyant cricketers, Tredwell is someone who can balance the team’s overall mindset.

He is an off-spinner and also a decent left-handed batsman. His ability to understand game situations and vary his pace accordingly will be extremely important. Though not a regular, his experience of Indian conditions could make him the surprise pick.

#11 Steven Finn

Finn has made a grand comeback to international cricket this year

At 6’7”, Steven Finn projects a scary demeanor and his height allows him to extract bounce even from dead pitches. He has the ability to clock above 140 kph consistently and can trouble even the best batsmen with his awkward length.

Though he has been a tad out of colour in recent times owing to injuries, he is confident that his ability to deliver fiery spells and take a few quick wickets at the top will help him contribute to the team’s cause.