England’s all-conquering one-day cricket team have seen the funny side of their football counterparts’ brush with the media.

The publication of a proposed team line-up caused Gareth Southgate to ask whether or not the English media were in full support of his side at the World Cup.

Heated debate has ensued on social media between broadcasters, journalists and ex-players about the role the press has to play.

England's cricketers were able to have a laugh about their football counterparts
England’s cricketers were able to have a laugh about their football counterparts (Martin Rickett/PA)

As England’s cricketers went to practice at Old Trafford, assistant coach Paul Farbrace held up a whiteboard with the squad list written on it.

It was captioned with: “Just for the press, our starting team is within this group.”

Sadly for the opponents Australia, knowing England’s side in advance has made little difference so far on this tour.