Justin Langer labels England star ‘the new MS Dhoni’

Australia coach Justin Langer believes England are still the best ODI team in the world despite losing to Sri Lanka on Friday.

The two traditional enemies will renew their rivalry at Lord’s on Tuesday, with Eoin Morgan’s side looking to bounce back after a 20-run defeat at Headingley which has left the host nation rather shellshocked.

England have work to do to secure their spot on the top four, but Langer has suggested they should not be worried.

“They are the best team in the world. Just look at their team; nothing has changed in a week,” said Langer.

“I can’t wait for Tuesday: England at Lord’s, World Cup. That is what we are thinking about.

“Jos [Buttler] is an unbelievable player. I love watching him bat. He is the new Dhoni of world cricket.

“I hope he gets a duck in this game obviously but I saw him at Somerset and he is an unbelievable athlete and an incredible finisher. They have a very strong batting unit and we will have to be right on it.”

A lot of the build-up is centering around the reception David Warner and Steve Smith will receive. The former is the tournament’s current top scorer, having scored 447 runs in six innings, and despite the fact Tuesday’s game is at Lord’s Langer is expecting more hostility.

“Probably but that is OK,” Langer continued.

“There is nothing we can do about the crowds or the opposition. We will just go about our business. I did not know Davey that well (before being appointed) but he is good company.

“His runs speak for themselves. He is smiling a lot. He is hungry. He is playing well. He loves his family. Like Steve, the return has been seamless and they are playing well too which is pleasing.”