England’s hopes of retaining their T20 World Cup title suffered a major blow after a heavy 36-run defeat to arch-rivals Australia in a high-voltage Group B clash.
Australia bat first, set huge target
Opting to field first, England‘s bowlers struggled to contain the explosive Australian batting lineup. David Warner and Travis Head got them off to a blistering start, with the score reaching a daunting 70 after just five overs.
While both openers departed within a short span, Mitchell Marsh and Glenn Maxwell continued the onslaught, before Chris Jordan claimed crucial wickets to restrict Australia to a formidable total of 201/7.
England chase falters
Chasing a mammoth target, England’s openers, Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, began brightly. However, a mix-up in the field by Head gifted Salt an extra six runs, but his joy was short-lived as he was dismissed by Adam Zampa shortly after.
Buttler also fell to Zampa, leaving England at 73/2 and needing a monumental effort.
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Moeen Ali provides respite
Moeen Ali provided a glimmer of hope with a delightful cameo, including three sixes in a single over.
However, the lack of partnerships at the other end and the ever-increasing required run rate proved too much for England.exclamation Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali fell before Liam Livingstone was caught by Mitchell Starc, leaving England’s chase in tatters.
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Australia clinch dominant T20 World Cup win
Chris Jordan and Harry Brook managed a late flourish, but it was merely a consolation as England fell short by 36 runs.
This convincing victory strengthens Australia’s position in the group and throws England’s qualification for the Super 8 stage into serious doubt.
