New Delhi: On the eve of the tense T20 World Cup semi-final match against India, England captain Harry Brooke made one thing clear – when the pressure is at its peak, his team thrives.
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England’s journey to the semi-finals has not been smooth. They struggled to defeat Nepal, Scotland and Italy in the group stage, but were beaten badly by the West Indies. But in the Super Eights, Brooke’s side turned things around and remained unbeaten against Sri Lanka, Pakistan and New Zealand – the latter needing a nerve-wracking 43 runs from the last 18 balls.
“We’re trying to get through close games and that’s the sign of a good team,” Brooke told Sky Sports Cricket. “I know you’re never out of a game. I know I have players with great character, a will to win, want to win a lot, but also the ability to stay calm under pressure.”
He insists it was this belief that made England so strong against the hosts in the semi-finals. “I want to make it as uncomfortable as possible for the batsmen at all times,” he added, underscoring England’s aggressive mentality.
Despite some poor form from white-ball superstar Jos Buttler and inconsistent performances from Phil Salt, Brooke has kept his focus at the top of his game. “I think Jos deserves to be left alone. He is one of the best players ever and I can see him doing well,” he said. “We have so many strong players in the front seven that if one player goes undrafted, opponents are left scratching their heads.”
Brook also singled out all-rounder Will Jacks for praise, calling his first World Cup appearance “phenomenal”. “He accepted the position and did a great job. The character he brought out was fantastic.”
The Indian team enjoys enthusiastic support from fans at home and Brooke knows the stage will be daunting. “It’s going to be a huge occasion and there’s a lot of pressure on both sides,” he said.
But if England’s campaign has proven anything, it’s this: write them off at your own peril.
