England’s bowling attack has struggled significantly in recent years. With an economy rate of 5.66, the highest among 23 ODI teams in the last decade, the numbers speak for themselves. Since the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, this figure has worsened to 6.39, showing the desperate need for a change in England’s strategy.
- England’s bowlers have the worst economy rate in ODIs.
- Moeen Ali’s absence has weakened England’s middle-overs control.
- Adil Rashid’s performance has declined without Ali’s support.
- Liam Livingstone could be groomed as England’s next key all-rounder.
England’s Struggles Without Moeen Ali
The absence of Moeen Ali has created a major void in England’s ODI squad. His ability to bowl tight overs and score at a strike rate of 98.16 made him a crucial asset. While his overall bowling average (47.84) and strike rate (53.9) may not seem exceptional, his economy rate (5.32) balanced England’s attack. The team won 80 out of 138 ODIs when he played, whereas, without him, they have only managed 26 wins in 59 matches.
The Effect on Adil Rashid’s Performance
Adil Rashid, England’s leading white-ball spinner, has felt the impact of Ali’s absence. He is England’s highest wicket-taker in ODIs over the last decade, with over 200 wickets. However, without Ali, his average has worsened to 39.71, and his strike rate has dropped to 41. The lack of a second spinner has forced him into a defensive role, reducing his wicket-taking ability.
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— ICC (@ICC) July 30, 2020
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Rashid’s ODI Performance With and Without Moeen Ali
| Stat | With Moeen Ali | Without Moeen Ali |
|---|---|---|
| Wickets | 165 | 46 |
| Average | 30.32 | 39.71 |
| Economy Rate | 5.57 | 5.80 |
| Strike Rate | 32.6 | 41 |
Without Ali, no spinner ranks among England’s top seven wicket-takers, exposing a significant gap in the bowling lineup.
Can Liam Livingstone Replace Moeen Ali?
Liam Livingstone, England’s second-highest wicket-taker since the 2023 World Cup, shows potential to fill the role left by Ali. His bowling average (38.32) and strike rate (37.9) are already better than Ali’s. However, his economy rate needs improvement to allow Rashid to attack rather than contain runs.
Other Spin-Bowling Options
England also has young talent like Jacob Bethell, who could be a future all-rounder. To remain competitive, England must invest in a second spinner rather than relying solely on pace bowling.
Why England Needs a Second Spinner
- Reduces pressure on Adil Rashid.
- Adds variety to England’s bowling attack.
- Helps control run rates in the middle overs.
- Prevents over-reliance on fast bowlers.
England’s failure to replace Moeen Ali has left a visible gap in their ODI squad. Their economy rate has worsened, and Adil Rashid’s effectiveness has declined. If England wants to regain dominance, they must empower a second spinner like Liam Livingstone or Jacob Bethell. Relying solely on fast bowlers will not work in the long run.
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