2 min learnFeb 18, 2026 12:47 AM IST
England have entered the Tremendous 8s of the T20 World Cup 2026, however the Harry Brook-led aspect has been a median unit at finest within the event so far. They narrowly scraped previous Nepal by 4 runs after a late scare of their opening match, then suffered a complete 30-run loss to the West Indies.
In opposition to Scotland, they stumbled to 13 for two whereas chasing 152 after shedding explosive openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler early, earlier than Tom Banton’s 63 rescued a victory and restored some satisfaction. In opposition to Italy, England once more appeared scratchy, letting the event debutants rating 178 in reply to their 202.
Former England cricketer Nick Knight expressed disappointment with the Three Lions’ efficiency within the occasion, questioning their plan beneath strain.
“I used to be actually disillusioned with that as a efficiency. They’ve carried out what they wanted to do, however I wished to see actual authority with bat and ball. It was like England stopped and drifted after taking these early wickets, considering the sport was completed. They bowled brief and received whacked, misplaced coherency, misplaced a plan,” he was quoted as saying by Sky Sports activities.
“If Adil Rashid doesn’t bowl properly within the center overs, I fear that they aren’t incisive sufficient to regain management,” he added.
The opening slot has additionally been a priority for this English aspect. Jos Buttler hasn’t scored a half-century in 9 worldwide innings this yr, and has been caught at mid-off for 3 in every of his final two matches. His opening associate, Phil Salt, is with out a fifty in six innings.
Knight added, “Certainly one of Salt’s nice strengths is taking the assault to the bowler straightaway, which provides Buttler time to seek out his method. However whereas in a rut, may Salt give himself a bit extra time? You don’t need to be unfavourable, and I believe they’ve been tentative at instances, so it’s a very superb line.”