England Cruise to T20 Series Victory Over Pakistan Ahead of World Cup Defence
England will embark on their T20 World Cup title defence in the Caribbean on Friday, buoyed by a commanding 2-0 series triumph over Pakistan at The Oval. The hosts delivered a powerful all-round performance to secure a seven-wicket victory, which should instill confidence in the squad as they prepare to take on the world’s best.
Captain Jos Buttler returned to the team after the birth of his third child, a son, and wasted no time making an impact, smashing 39 off just 21 balls. Alongside the destructive Phil Salt, who blasted 45 off 24 deliveries, the pair put on an 82-run opening stand to effortlessly chase down Pakistan’s 157 all out with 27 balls to spare.
“There’s a good feeling about the squad,” said Buttler. “The guys have all stepped up and performed. In terms of my batting, that quest to keep improving and get better has given me extra energy and motivation.”
The England attack was equally impressive, with the pace duo of Mark Wood and Jofra Archer operating at lightning speed and sharing the new ball. Spinner Adil Rashid, the world’s top-ranked T20 bowler, showcased his class by claiming two key wickets, while Liam Livingstone produced a superb double-wicket maiden to stifle Pakistan’s innings.
Despite the loss of two matches to rain, England’s bowlers looked in ominous form, and Buttler will be pleased with the depth in his squad as they prepare to defend their T20 World Cup crown. With the beach cricket set, 100-ball cricket schedule, and 100-ball cricket live events on the horizon, as well as club cricket and fantasy club cricket competitions, the hosts will be eager to carry this momentum into the Caribbean.
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