England hope home World Cup can break down barriers on and off pitch

Eoin Morgan’s side start as favourites to lift their first title but tournament offers once-in-a-generation to revive interestThe last time England hosted the Cricket World Cup 20 years ago they suffered the embarrassment of being knocked out before the official tournament song had even been released. Their record has scarcely improved since. Yet when Eoin Morgan’s side open the 2019 tournament against South Africa on Thursday they will be in the unfamiliar role of favourites.England