* England start run chase positively but crumble thereafter (Match 17)
By Dwayne Ferreira
Australia outplayed England in a crucial T20 World Cup match in Barbados, leaving the defending champions in a precarious position. Batting first, Australia posted a formidable 204/6, with explosive starts from David Warner and Travis Head, who put on 70 runs in the first five overs. Warner top-scored with 39, while contributions from Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, and Tim David ensured Australia reached a challenging total. The dimensions of the Kensington Oval played a significant role, with a shorter boundary allowing for easier six-hitting.
England’s chase started promisingly, with Jos Buttler and Phil Salt putting on 73 runs for the first wicket within seven overs. However, the introduction of Adam Zampa changed the game. Zampa struck twice in quick succession, removing both openers and triggering a middle-order collapse. England’s batsmen struggled to adapt to the dry pitch, with only Moeen Ali providing some resistance with a brief flurry of sixes. Despite their strong start, England faltered, finishing at 156/8, well short of the target.
The defeat leaves England needing big wins in their upcoming matches against Oman and Namibia, along with favorable results in other games to keep their hopes of advancing alive. The washout against Scotland has also complicated their path to the Super 8s. In contrast, Australia continues their campaign with confidence, displaying both batting depth and bowling prowess to maintain their unbeaten run in the tournament.
Australia’s disciplined performance, particularly from their spinners and seamers, highlighted their balanced attack. The team’s ability to adapt to different conditions and execute their plans efficiently has made them formidable opponents. England, meanwhile, must regroup quickly and address their batting frailties if they are to remain contenders in this World Cup.
Chief Scores :-
Australia – 201 for 7 in 20 overs (David Warner 39, Mitchell Marsh 35, Travis Head 34, Chris Jordan 2 for 44, Liam Livingstone 1 for 15)
England – 165 for 6 in 20 overs (Jos Butler 42, Phil Salt 37, Moeen Ali 25, Pat Cummins 2 for 23, Adam Zampa 2 for 28)
Player of the Match – Adam Zampa
