England’s captain Eoin Morgan is not concerned with sending a message to the rest of the cricket world when his side take on the Proteas in Thursday’s World Cup opener, writes DANIEL GALLAN in London.

‘A win under any circumstances’ was Morgan’s quick response when asked what sort of result England were looking for in the opener.

That seems seems obvious, given that a win by one run counts the same as a win by 100, but the question alludes to the pressure that the allure of a maiden title brings, with England installed as the bookies’ favourites to lift a trophy that has eluded them in 12 previous editions.

‘The level of expectation and favourite tags are there for a reason,’ Morgan said. ‘Over the last two years, our form at home, in [particular], has been outstanding, and that’s the reason it’s there.’

While Proteas teams of the past have been uncomfortable with being considered champions-elect, Morgan welcomes the target on his back.

‘A lot of the World Cups earlier I’ve played in, we’ve gone in with very little expectation and not done that well. I’d pick this position over any other.’

Morgan also reserved praise for Du Plessis’ team. He said that even without the injured Dale Steyn, the bowling attack he’ll be facing tomorrow is well-rounded. The England captain is under no illusions; tomorrow will be no gimme.

‘They are a well-rounded team. They are always a strong team coming into the tournament,. They are experienced as well. A lot of guys have been around a long time.

‘It’s a strong attack. They have coped without Dale Steyn in previous series and they did a good job. The last time they played us at home [he] wasn’t there. They have cover.’

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