‘Their bowling is nothing special’ – Former India opener gives verdict on England ahead of semifinal clash against India

England Team (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Former Indian opening batter Virender Sehwag believes that England’s bowling attack does not pose any threats to the Indian team ahead of their semi-final clash in the T20 World Cup on Thursday, March 5, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The two sides meet in hopes of joining New Zealand in the summit clash.

“If we can chase 195 against the West Indies, we can do that against England as well. Their bowling is nothing special as such,” Sehwag said to Cricbuzz.

England’s bowling attack have held their own in the competition to good levels. Jofra Archer’s express pace is ably backed up by Sam Curran’s death bowling and Jamie Overton’s bursts. The spin duo of Adil Rashind and Liam Dawson have executed plans to perfection, with tight lines and smart variations. Will Jacks has been an X factor with his off-spin, accounting for Player-of-the-Match performances in four of England’s seven matches for his bowling and batting exploits.

Regardless of all these factors, Sehwag believes that India will have to be at the top of their game if they are to beat this England side.

“We are playing in India, we are playing at the Wankhede, our favorite ground, so we have the edge. But having the edge does not mean that we will win. No excuse will work, your batting, bowling, and fielding has to be on point. It will not work if they if only we had done that and all those things. We just need a little luck,” he added.

After the loss to South Africa in the Super-8 stage, India have gone from strength to strength in their last two games, with their batting unit clicking in all aspects against Zimbabwe, before Sanju Samson’s inspired knock took them over the line in a virtual-knockout game against the West Indies.

India return to the Wankhede, where they opened their account in the tournament against the USA, while England have also played two games in Mumbai, the close shave against Nepal and the loss to West Indies. This is the third time in succession that these two sides are meeting in the semifinals of the T20 World Cup, with England winning their first encounter in 2022, before India’s dominant display took them over the line in 2024.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.