John Turner was selected by the Trent Rockets as one of two wildcards in the 100 this season. Photo: Getty Images/Alex Davidson
The likely absence of Jofra Archer from the World Cup deprives England not only of one of the fastest bowlers in cricket, but also one of the most technical. And yet, while he will be missed, England are in many ways better prepared to deal with the loss of Archer than at any time in his international career.
England teams – both for the upcoming ODIs including the World Cup and the T20 series against New Zealand – are testament to the growing pace of bowling in the country.
Conditions, climate and domestic schedules in England hamper the production of fast bowlers . But along with Mark Wood, there are three other men in the England squad who can hit 90 mph: Gus Atkinson without a cap who is aiming for the World Cup, John Turner and Josh Tong who will both only compete in the T20 series with New Zealand.
Little was known about all this in English cricket until a couple of months ago. The language was unexpectedly chosen to debut in the Tests against Ireland in June, winning five queens and impressing in his only Ashes match. Atkinson, who has only played two 50-over games in his pro career, made a big impression this year as he hit 95 mph bowling the 100 with Jos Battler and beat Archer.