ICC World Cup 2019: Chris Jordan Optimistic to Make it to the England Squad

England Cricket team fast bowler Chris Jordon, who is currently out of the ODI setup, is still harbouring the dreams of being in the ICC World Cup team. Meanwhile, the pinnacle event will commence from May 30 with hosts England facing South Africa.

Jordan, who last played a one-dayer for England in 2016, shone in his side’s victory over Windies in the first T20 in St Lucia on Tuesday night. He still has two more in St Kitts on Friday and Sunday to further his claims. Batting first, Windies set up a target of 161 runs banking on Nicholas Pooran’s half-century. Chris Jordan starred with the new ball as he kept the inform Windies opener Chris Gayle in check. The giant Jamaican started the innings on a high with two sixes before Jordan got him out. He then dismissed Darren Bravo, who was looking in fine touch to add to his tally. While Jordan returned with two for 16 in his three over, Tom Curran picked four wickets to keep the hosts in check.

Speaking about his World Cup chances, Chris Jordan admitted that he is still in contention for a berth. He also revealed the selector Ed Smith has assured that he is in the fringes of the main team. However, he admitted that his full concentration is currently on the T20Is against Windies and the rest is on the selectors.

“I hope the ship hasn’t sailed,” the 30-year-old said of his World Cup chances. “I’ve had conversations with Ed Smith when squads are announced and he’s always said I’m there or thereabouts. That gives me encouragement. Twenty20 cricket is what I’m involved in now and anything other than that I will leave to the selectors,” he added.

Jordan hopeful about Jofra Archer

Another young fast bowler who is on the cards for England’s World Cup team is Jofra Archer. The 23-year-old is set to make his England debut in 50-over matches against Ireland and Pakistan in May, and Chris Jordan has seen him from close quarters. Jordan hailed the youngster saying that he has the ability to deliver in a big stage like the World Cup.

Jofra Archer has played franchise cricket all round the globe and has made giant strides. Recently England coach Trevor Bayliss also shared high praise on the young fast bowler and admitted that he is in line to be in the World Cup team.

“I speak to Jofra literally every day and he’s like my little brother,” said Jordan. “For a kid so young he’s got a good head on his shoulders. I’m more than certain he will rise to the occasion when he qualifies because he’s that sort of character and person,” he concluded.