Wood relishes being England’s go to man

Wood’s one-day international best four for 33 in England’s concluding group win over Australia, which saw it knock out its arch rivals, included the prize scalps of Aussie skipper Steven Smith, David Warner and Glenn Maxwell at Edgbaston. 

This tournament also saw him remove New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, one of the world’s best batsmen, with a brilliant delivery in unbeaten England’s win over the Black Caps in Cardiff. 

“It’s a nice feeling to have the confidence of the captain,” said Wood ahead of England’s semi-final against Pakistan in Cardiff on Wednesday. 

“I don’t know if it makes me try a little bit harder, but at the moment I seem to be getting some of the best players out. It’s a nice knack to have.” The 27-year-old Durham quick, fit following persistent ankle trouble, said Morgan’s backing had been a huge confidence boost. 

“You feel like the captain really needs you and you want to be the man who changes the game — and that’s what I’ve tried to do. You lift up, push your shoulders back, puff your chest out a little bit.” England have won 11 of their last 12 one-day internationals.