Morgan banking on Ben’s fitness
way he’s batting it’s literally like having two players,” said Morgan.
“I envisage him being fit to bowl. I don’t see any complications as to why he can’t. But I don’t want to put him under a huge amount of pressure to bowl 10.
“We have guys who can impact a game as much as he can, particularly with the pace we have got. But you always look to him for a minimum of five.”
Morgan was in confident mood on the eve of a tournament for which his exciting white-ball side are favourites.
And the skipper took the opportunity to end speculation that Jonny Bairstow might yet be parachuted in at the expense of the out-of-sorts opener Jason Roy.
Roy has struggled this year, just once reaching double figures in his last five innings for England, but his captain retains full faith in his ability to kick-start the innings.
“Jonny will miss out unfortunately,” said Morgan. “He’s been very good when he’s come in, but each and every one of us within the batting department has had ups and downs.
“One of the strongest parts of reinforcing the way that we play and the freedom in which we play with is backing that up with selection.
“Jason will definitely play. And the decision remains the same throughout the tournament. I cannot see it changing.”
England were not at their best in their final outing of a three-match series against South Africa at Lord’s on Monday, slumping to 20-6 at one stage and losing by seven wickets.
Morgan said: “It certainly was a wake-up call in that you need to be able to adapt in different circumstances. It’s about delivering in every game.”