ICC World Cup 2023: England's White-Ball Coach Matthew Mott Hints At Harry Brook's Selection In WC Squad

England’s white-ball coach Matthew Mott opened up about the possibility of young batter Harry Brook’s inclusion in the squad for the ODI World Cup 2023. Matthew Mott highlighted that the players have enough chances to prove themselves before the final squad selection.

Harry Brook was omitted from England’s 15-member provisional squad for the World Cup 2023 in India. The right-handed batter failed to make the squad for the global tournament after star all-rounder Ben Stokes reversed his retirement from the 50-over format.

Harry Brook Is An Incredible Player – Matthew Mott

Speaking ahead of the fourth T20I against New Zealand, Matthew Mott praised Harry Brook‘s cricketing talent, describing him as an exceptional player.

“I don’t think anyone doubts Harry’s ability. He’s an incredible player and he’s shown that,” Mott told Sky Sports.

“What I’ve been most impressed by is his response since missing out and that’s what great players do. There’s a lot to play out before we pick that first XI against New Zealand in India and we’ve always said it’s a provisional squad. Everyone will get a really good opportunity to show what they’ve got,” he added.

The 24-year-old batter smashed a century in The Hundred 2023 tournament following his snub from the national team. He registered scores of 43 and 67 in the first two T20Is against New Zealand at home. However, he managed only 8 and 4 in the last two matches.

Harry Has Not Played A Lot Of One-Day Cricket – Matthew Mott

Matthew Mott explained Harry Brook’s omission from the ODI World Cup 2023 squad, highlighting his limited experience in one-day cricket. Mott said the selected players had a track record of performing for England in recent years.

“Harry has not played a lot of one-day cricket over the last few years. He’s been exceptionally good in Test cricket and T20 cricket and leagues around the world, but the guys that we did pick have done a great job for England over the last few years. It’s always harder to get into sides than it is to get out of them and we’ve played that card there.”

It’s A Provisional Squad – Matthew Mott

The England white-ball coach emphasized that the provisional squad could still see changes and added that every player should aim to showcase their abilities for selection.

“As I’ve said, it’s a provisional squad. Every team will be tinkering before that World Cup and everyone – whether they’re in that 15 or outside it – should be determined to try and put their best foot forward.”

“I find it hard, when you look at that 15, to think that anyone doesn’t deserve that spot. When you’re picking teams that are that strong, there’s always going to be a story. If any one of those guys miss out, it’s a story. As I’ve said, there’s time between now and the World Cup.”

“In an ideal world, we probably don’t have to play our hand until a little bit later but those are the cards we’re dealt. We had to get the squad out before this series. A lot can change: there’s a lot of water under the bridge before we get to that first game against New Zealand.”

Also read: ICC World Cup 2023: Will Harry Brook Be Called Back To England’s WC Squad? Eoin Morgan Delivers Huge Update