David Willey Opens Up On Missing Out On The World Cup Squad

England limited-overs seamer David Willey has shed light on his feelings on missing out on a potential 2019 World Cup berth. David Willey, who did not get preference for the ten-team event hosted by England, bagged his maiden five-wicket haul in ODIs that set up the win for his team against Ireland on Saturday. The Ageas Bowl saw England play Ireland in their first white-ball game of the season.

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David Willey made his international debut after England’s 2015 World Cup debacle and remained part of their plans until the 11th hour.

Instead, the selectors opted for Jofra Archer, who joined the likes of Liam Plunkett, Chris Woakes, Tom Curran, and Mark Wood for the pace-bowling department. Archer, Woakes, Wood, and Plunkett all played in the finals and were instrumental in the hosts’ first World Cup victory.

Willey remarked that being part of the squad for four years and to miss out on the last minute was frustrating. The 30-year-old stated that it is all about enjoying every minute of his international cricket and to cash in on all his chances. He hopes for the positive results to keep coming.

“Obviously I’ve been part of the group for four years, so to miss out at the 11th hour (World Cup squad) was difficult. For me it’s about going out and enjoying every minute. Every opportunity could be the last one. I want to play my best cricket when I’m enjoying it. Hopefully the results keep coming,” the Northampton-born seamer stated as quoted by Gulf News.

David Willey and Saqib Mahmood were outstanding: Eoin Morgan

English limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan was also happy with David Willey’s remarkable comeback after missing out on a World Cup spot. Willey, who took the new-ball along with Saqib Mahmood, removed four out of top six batsmen and took a wicket at the end.

England, who gained ten points as part of the first World Cup super league, would look to seal the series on Saturday.

“Given the story of Willey missing out on the World Cup squad, it’s a fantastic comeback. He and (Saqib) Mahmood were outstanding,” Morgan said.

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