England laid down their World Cup credentials with a dominant win over Australia in their Super 12 clash in the T20 World Cup in Dubai.
Putting Australia to bat first, the 50-over World Champions dominated from the get go. Chris Woakes and Chris Jordan dismantled the Aussie batting line up, with the likes of Warner and Steve Smith sent back with 1 run each to their name.
Only a defiant Aaron Finch helped prevent what could have been 2-figure score with a fighting 44 of 49 balls. Jordan then dismissed Finch and despite some late flurry by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc , Australia could only post 125 in 20 overs having been all out.
England then dismantled Australia’s bowling with Jos Butler, being the destroyer in chief. The wicket keeper batsman took the game out of Australia’s hand from the beginning, with 5 sixes and 5 fours. Butler scored 71 of just 32 balls showing what this England team is capable of and that it will take some effort to stop them from reaching the final.
England finished the game with more than 8 overs to spare and 8 wickets in hand. This was a statement of intent loud and clear.
For Australia the task is to see off the rest of the games without any hiccups and hope to reach the knockouts where anything can happen. Although a much improved performance is needed if they are to remain a threat in this World Cup.
(Featured image AFP)