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Look after ODI stars before Ashes: Morgan

3 minute read

Eoin Morgan wants England to make sure his one-day players are well rested before the Ashes begin at the start of August.

JAMES ANDERSON
JAMES ANDERSON Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Eoin Morgan has urged England officials to look after his World Cup winning one-day players ahead of the Ashes and give them the rest they need.

Up to seven of England's world champion squad will likely double up into the Ashes series against Australia, which begins on August 1 at Edgbaston.

England are also facing injury dramas, with James Anderson in a race against the clock to overcome a calf injury before the first Test.

The hosts have a one-off Test against Ireland to play first, but one-day captain Morgan said his players had to be looked after ahead of the gruelling Ashes campaign.

"I think it gives them a bit of leeway to get some time off as well which is quite nice. I think everybody needs it," Morgan said.

"This tournament has taken a lot out of us as a team, both mentally and physically.

"And I think energy levels will drop quite quickly unless the guys are looked after and I think I'm pretty sure they are going to be looked after."

Australia were unsure before Sunday's final what result would leave England in the best condition for the Ashes.

The win has fuelled the spirit and emotion of English cricket, which is now at its highest point since their home Ashes series win in 2005.

However there is a thought it could leave them with a hangover headed into the first Test, rather than a the steely desire that could have come with a loss.

"I think it will give them a lot of confidence," Morgan argued after the match.

Meanwhile Jofra Archer could be handed a Test debut just months after stepping into England's one-day side as a result of his World Cup success.

Archer took 20 wickets at 23.05 in his maiden tournament for England, and troubled Australia with his pace and bounce in Thursday's semi-final.

He did however show signs of soreness in his side in the final win over New Zealand and throughout the tournament.

The 24-year-old was not willing to buy into talk about a possible Ashes debut following the final on Sunday.

"I'll worry about that tomorrow," Archer said.

"Today I just want to enjoy this with the lads, we can worry about the Ashes in a week or so."

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