England to win in 2009

The Ashes are more than two years away... the 2009 Ashes that is. But The Times writer Richard Hobson is predicting an England win based on the Emerging Players category for this year's ICC Awards.

Whatever happens in the coming Ashes series, England should be strong favourites for 2009. It is just a question of whether they retain or regain the urn. This, at least, is one possible conclusion from the long list of eight candidates for the ICC Emerging Player of the Year award, which includes three Englishmen and no Australians

There appears to be little to choose between Panesar, Cook and Bell, arguably the three strongest contenders in their section. Panesar would be the most popular choice in England. He has struck a rare chord with the public who like an underdog, especially one who is a bit different. But any cult appeal that Panesar attracted through his doziness in the field has been replaced by respect for his hard work and admiration for his skill as a spin bowler.