Flower expects England to bloom
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Coach Andy Flower insists England are excited rather than weary as they head into the Champions Trophy tomorrow.
Despite arriving on the back of a gruelling summer schedule, which concluded with a 6-1 NatWest Series drubbing by Australia, and having just two days' practice to acclimatise to the high altitude here, England head into their opening Group B fixture against Sri Lanka tomorrow thankful for a change of scene.
"We have had a long, hard summer back home, so getting out here and playing in this tournament, with the best players in the world is very exciting for everyone," said Flower. "We are looking forward to that challenge.
"There is no trouble at all getting the players up for this tournament. "Being here and feeling the buzz about it, and looking forward to a couple of wins to get us through to the semi-finals is exciting for everyone."
While Australia's pacemen, led by a rejuvenated Brett Lee, cleaned up England's misfiring batsmen earlier this month, the threat now reverts to spin with Muttiah Muralitharan and Ajantha Mendis, whose remarkable rise continued with a starring display in the tournament opening win over South Africa.
"It proved a tough series against Australia but the Sri Lankans will put forward a completely different challenge," said Flower.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments