T20 World Cup: England struggle into Super 8s after scare against Italy
England have progressed to the T20 World Cup Super 8s but face questions over their form following a laboured victory against Italy.
Room for improvement
All-rounder Will Jacks admitted the team must be “a lot better” after securing their spot in the next round with a difficult win at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Despite being 2010 and 2022 champions, the side currently look far off the pace compared to unbeaten rivals such as India and South Africa.
Three unconvincing wins over Associate Nations, combined with a meek defeat by the West Indies, has done little to inspire confidence.
Change of scenery
Harry Brook’s side will now move to Sri Lanka for their Super 8s fixtures, hoping a shift in location can reignite their campaign.
Having secured a 3-0 series sweep on the island prior to the tournament, there is hope that the English squad can rediscover their touch.
However, recent performances suggest deep-lying issues, including a near-defeat to Nepal that was salvaged only by Sam Curran’s death bowling.
Batting struggles continue
Against Italy, it required a 21-ball half-century from Jacks to lift the score to 202-7 after the top order failed to convert good starts.
The vaunted opening partnership of Jos Buttler and Phil Salt has yet to fire consistently during the tournament.
Defending the total proved equally difficult, with the bowling attack looking devoid of ideas until Jacks eventually removed Ben Manenti for a rapid 60.
‘They lost a plan’
Former England opener Nick Knight expressed concern over the lack of authority shown by the team.
“I was really disappointed with that as a performance. They have done what they needed to do but I wanted to see real authority with bat and ball.”Nick Knight, Sky Sports Cricket
He added that the bowling unit appeared to drift after taking early wickets.
“They bowled short and got whacked, lost coherency, lost a plan. If Adil Rashid doesn’t bowl well in the middle overs, I worry that they are not incisive enough to regain control.”