The omission of key players such as captain Andrew Strauss and premier bowler James Anderson has given opportunity to others to stake a claim ahead of the World Cup in 2011.
However, these new candidates to be on the plane to India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will no doubt pose the selectors no end of new problems.
Wicket Keeper
Ever since Alec Stewart hung up his gloves, the England wicket keeping position has been a point of much debate. Many have been given a go, but only now does there seem to be a regular stumper for the nation to rely on.
Matt Prior has all but cemented his place in England's line up. Prior's batting prowess has never really been questioned, but more so his keeping ability. It is in no doubt that he has made huge strides since his debut back in 2004, and he is now much more reliable than some of his predecessors. However, almost every keeper is prone to a mistake, and Prior is no different and some harsh critics still question his ability at international level.
There are those that believe that James Foster would be a better option. Foster is, without doubt, the best and most natural keeper at England's disposal, and his performance in the recent Twenty20 World Cup highlighted this. However, in today's modern game where a keeper who bats is seen as the best option, Foster will struggle. His one-day average of 27 is way short of his rivals, and this may mean he will have to play second fiddle.
Other candidates for the post include Craig Kieswetter, whose is yet to deliver with the bat on the international stage, and Surrey-bound, left-hander Steve Davies, who would be more naturally suited to opening the innings, a position that has enough worthy candidates as it is.
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