'That Must Be The End Of His International Career' : Michael Vaughan Unhappy At The Opener's Omission From England's 18-Man ODI Squad To Face Pakistan

Former English captain Michael Vaughan has expressed his disappointment at seeing a name missing from the fresh 18-man squad announced by England ahead of the ODI series against Pakistan. The COVID-19 hitting the England camp forced the selectors to name nine uncapped players in them, with Ben Stokes set to captain it. But Michael Vaughan was most disappointed not to see Alex Hales’ presence in the side.

Alex Hales initially made it to England’s 2019 World Cup squad; however, he tested positive for recreational drugs and was ousted from the national team. The right-handed batsman has not donned the England jersey since March 2019 but continues to impress in franchise cricket. The 32-year old was the highest run-getter in the 2020-21 Big Bash League, slamming 543 runs in 15 matches at 38.78.

Hales is also amongst the top five run-getters in the current edition of the Vitality Blast, accumulating 382 runs in 11 games at 47.75, including one century and two fifties. Moreover, he has a compelling ODI record, smashing 2419 runs in 70 fixtures at 37.79, with six tons, striking at 95.72. With Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow set to miss the ODIs, England could have used some experience at the top of the order.

Michael Vaughan took to his official Twitter handle and expressed his fears about Hales nearing the end of his international career. The 46-year old highlighted that the opener’s mistake deserves to be forgiven as he has done his punishment time.

Below is Michael Vaughan’s tweet:

So No Alex Hales … that must be the end of his international career then … find it very sad that someone who made a huge mistake but was punished can’t be given another go … we all mistakes every week … !!! Those that say they don’t are lying … #OnOn

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) July 6, 2021

Nevertheless, England’s white-ball skipper Eoin Morgan had already downplayed Hales’ return to the fold. While Morgan had no doubts over the 32-year old’s quality, the Irishman revealed they have plenty of options among top-order batsmen. Furthermore, Morgan admitted there are conversations left between them, the management, and Hales.

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