Nottinghamshire Director of Cricket Mick Newell hopes that James Taylor can push for a place in England’s ICC Cricket World Cup plans following his selection to captain England Lions in the triangular series against New Zealand A and Sri Lanka A.
Taylor’s inclusion alongside Alex Hales and Harry Gurney will force Newell to select a new Outlaws captain for some Royal London One-Day Cup fixtures.
“I certainly feel that James Taylor can make a big impact in 50-over cricket because he is restricted to cameo appearances in T20,” said Newell.
“Leading the Lions gives him a huge opportunity to present his case at a time when England are looking towards the World Cup.
This could be a great way for him to force his way in.”Taylor has a long history with England Lions while Harry Gurney has impressed in white-ball cricket for his country this year.Alex Hales has been a stable presence at the top of England’s T20 order in recent years, and many have called for his inclusion in the longer forms of the game after seeing him excel on both the domestic and international stages.
Former England Team Director Andy Flower will coach the side.
England Lions Squad
James Taylor (Nottinghamshire) captain
Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire)
Ravi Bopara (Essex)
Steven Finn (Middlesex)
Stephen Parry (Lancashire)
Harry Gurney (Nottinghamshire)
Alex Hales (Nottinghamshire)
Craig Overton (Somerset)
Jason Roy (Surrey)
Ravi Patel (Middlesex)
Tom Smith (Lancashire)
James Vince (Hampshire)
David Willey (Northamptonshire)