Ahead of the highly anticipated semi-final clash between IND and ENG at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024England head coach Matthew Mott shared his strategic insights on how to take on India’s leading pacer, jasprit bumrahat the Providence Cricket Stadium in Guyana.
Mott said that the england cricket team identified the in-form Bumrah as a key threat for the defending champions in their semi-final clash against Team India on Thursday, June 27. The England head coach stressed the importance of neutralising Bumrah’s impact on the game with calculated risks, given his ability to disrupt batting line-ups in the tournament.
Matthew Mott reveals England plans to neutralize Jasprit Bumrah in T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final
Acknowledging Bumrah’s exceptional skills, Mott admitted that there are not too many flaws in the Indian speedster’s game, but like any bowler, he could also have a bad day, and hopes that day will be the semi-final clash, and if that happens , they will look to capitalize and gain momentum against Indian team.
Mott hinted at a proactive approach against Bumrah, revealing that several England batsmen are confident in his ability to handle their bowling in the match, but emphasized playing smart cricket against the Yorkshire specialist and making the most of any potential weaknesses he might show in the match. game.
Matthew Mott said in The Guardian: “He will be an important part of our planning, any way we can nullify his influence on the game will be a huge help. It’s something we’ve done well, taking our medicine against certain pitchers and then doubling down at the other end. There will be players who think they can handle him, and times when we will have to box smartly. I don’t see too many flaws, but I hope he has one of those bad days that any pitcher can have and we can take advantage of it.
India’s aggressive approach presents unique opportunity for England: Mott
Additionally, Mott highlighted the aggressive approach that the Indian team has taken in the powerplay, particularly skipper Rohit Sharma. He noted that Rohit’s confident but aggressive batting style sets the tone for the Men in Blue, but also offers an opportunity for England’s bowlers.
Mott stressed the importance of taking early wickets to disrupt India’s momentum in the semi-final clash in Guyana. Reflecting on England’s journey throughout the tournament, the head coach praised their ability to play out from the back and overcome challenges. However, Mott wants his side to take control early in the semi-final clash against India.
He signed off saying: “They definitely come out much tougher in the power play with the bat. The way Rohit has led from the front is quite obvious for all to see. But that also presents a unique opportunity for our bowling attack to take early wickets. We have had to play most of this tournament from behind and with adversity. We would love to throw that first punch, get in front and really make it.”
Notably, India remains undefeated in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, having won six of its seven matches, with one group stage match lost against Canada. On the other hand, England recovered from early setbacks in both the group stage and the Super-8 stage of the tournament.
