The memories of the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final has been fresh on people’s minds lately, as both India and England gear up yet again to duel it out for a spot in the final now in 2024.
Despite what the history books read, former England skipper Paul Collingwood has warned England to be cautious and take on India smartly this time around.
After being forced to bat first, the Indian batters started steadily in the powerplay. Virat Kohli made his fourth half-century in this T20 WC and Hardik Pandya accelerated the innings swiftly and scored 63 off 33 runs. India scored 168 runs at the end of 20 overs.
But it was not meant to be for the Indian bowlers, who were plundered by the opening duo of Jos Butler (80* off 49) and Alex Hales (86* off 47) who finished the match with 4 overs to spare without losing a wicket.
Collingwood though remains of the idea that such aggressiveness may not necessarily be the strategy to help the defending champion get over the hump.
“The previous plan was to attack India aggressively from the start. However, a team like India can’t be surprised by that tactic,” stated Collingwood.
“In 2022, when India batted first, we knew we could restrict them. Back then, India played conservatively, especially in the first 10 overs, and then tried to catch up later. But as we discussed, India’s approach has changed. They understand that this strategy won’t win World Cups. They need to take risks, be brave, and express themselves freely.”
In the eyes of Collingwood, given India’s swashbuckling ability with the bat, with their deep batting order, allowing them to bat first would spell trouble for England.
“Batting first, they could potentially score a total far beyond England’s reach. That’s the exciting thing about this clash. It’s a great prospect for world cricket – two strong teams going head-to-head.”
India made it to the final four by virtue of topping their Super 8 group after beating Australia in their final Super 8 group game, thus putting Australia on the verge of elimination.
England’s march to the semis, on the other hand, has been an arduous journey, enduring losses against Australia and South Africa, and washout game against Scotland, yet they found a way to make the semi-final.
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