T20 World Cup 2024: 3 concerns for England in Semifinals - Cricket Winner

The first 20-team T20 World Cup has introduced some exciting and unexpected contests. Among them was the match between the USA and England, a fixture more common in rugby and football than cricket.

This encounter, their first in T20Is, saw England deliver a commanding 10-wicket victory to secure a spot in the semifinals. However, as England gears up for the crucial knockout stage, several challenges could impact their performance.

England’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2024 has been thrilling, but they face significant challenges as they head into the semifinals. Addressing issues in their bowling department, ensuring consistent power-hitting, and improving the performance of their all-rounders will be key to their success.

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With the talent and potential in their squad, England can overcome these obstacles and aim for the title. Let’s explore the three significant problems they need to address:

1. Bowling Department Concerns

Rusty performances

Despite entering the tournament with confidence from a strong T20I series against Pakistan, England’s bowlers have struggled to find their rhythm. In a match against Scotland, they conceded 89 runs in just 10 overs without taking a wicket. Such lapses can be costly in high-stakes matches.

Powerplay troubles

In the game against Australia, key bowlers like Will Jacks, Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, and Mark Wood were expensive during the powerplay. Conceding over 200 runs in a match is a major concern heading into the semifinals. England needs their bowlers to step up and deliver consistent performances.

One bright spot has been Chris Jordan, who made history by becoming the first English bowler to take a hat-trick in T20Is during the match against the USA. His hat-trick in the 19th over showcased his ability to deliver under pressure, but England needs similar contributions from the entire bowling unit.

2. Power-Hitting Inconsistencies

Strong Starts from Openers

Jos Buttler and Phil Salt have provided quickfire starts in most matches. Buttler’s unbeaten 83 off 38 balls against the USA demonstrated his destructive capabilities. Salt has also looked dominant during powerplays, providing the aggressive starts England needs.

Middle-Order struggles

Despite strong starts, the middle order has struggled. Will Jacks has found it difficult to time the ball in challenging conditions. Liam Livingstone, known for his finishing ability, has only managed 61 runs in the tournament. Harry Brook, another powerful hitter, has also been below his best with just 120 runs. For England to dominate, these players need to find form.

3. All-Rounders’ Underperformance

Moeen Ali and Liam Livingstone

England relies on the balance provided by all-rounders like Moeen Ali and Liam Livingstone. Moeen has shown glimpses of his potential, smashing three sixes in an over against Maxwell. However, both he and Livingstone have been far from their best in batting and bowling. Moeen has scored 63 runs and taken only 3 wickets in 4 innings, while Livingstone’s impact has been minimal.

Sam Curran’s contributions

Sam Curran, another key all-rounder, has not been as impressive as expected. His contributions in both departments are crucial for England’s success in the semifinals. The team needs its all-rounders to perform consistently to provide the balance and depth required in knockout matches.