T20 World Cup 2026: Will England's star-studded batting order prevail?
What's the story
England are gearing up to chase their third ICC T20 World Cup title. After a disappointing semi-final exit against eventual champions India in 2024, they will be led by Harry Brook this time. England are expected to make the top four in the 2026 event scheduled in India and Sri Lanka as well. However, the subcontinent conditions and slow pitches might pose a challenge to their star-studded batting order.
Squad
England's squad for T20 World Cup
The 15-man England squad includes Josh Tongue, who is yet to play limited-overs cricket. He made the cut after Mark Wood was ruled out with a left-knee injury. Full squad: Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, and Luke Wood.
Strengths
Explosive batting line-up with all-rounders
As mentioned, England boast an explosive batting line-up in the form of Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, and skipper Brook himself. The team also has potent all-rounders in Will Jacks, Rehan Ahmed, and Liam Dawson. The most lethal of them will be Sam Curran, who has the required variations with his left-arm pace for the slow Asian tracks. Wrist-spinner Adil Rashid will be their x-factor.
Weaknesses
Can England ace the spin challenge?
Although the English batters are well accustomed to Bazball, turning tracks can halt their progress. This could lead to an early collapse. However, their pace department also looks thin without the injured Mark Wood. Josh Tongue and Luke Wood would have to step in. A lot will depend on the dangerous Jofra Archer, who is also returning from an injury layoff. His fitness would be crucial for England.
Information
England's likely XI for first match
England's likely XI: Jos Buttler (wicket-keeper), Phil Salt, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (captain), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, and Adil Rashid.