I can’t see India losing this time, England will need something extraordinary to beat them: Paul Collingwood

Team India (Source – Getty Images)

The T20 World Cup 2024 is all set for its semi-final stage where India and England lock horns for the first show while South Africa and Afghanistan will meet up in the second game. India are unbeaten in the tournament so far and will have eyes fixed on the prestigious ICC Trophy, which has been away from their reach in the last 11 years.

In the same light, former England skipper Paul Collingwood believes that India have a well-rounded squad and defending champions would need something extraordinary to beat Rohit Sharma and his men this time. Collingwood lauded Jasprit Bumrah’s current form as the pacer has been absolutely unplayable in the tournament with a stunning economy of 4.08.

Speaking exclusively during the Star Sports Press Room, former England captain Paul Collingwood spoke on the matchup between India and England in the T20 World Cup semi-finals.  “India, with their well-rounded squad, stands out particularly for Jasprit Bumrah’s current form. He’s fit, accurate, fast, and highly skilled. No team seems to have an answer for him. In a 120-ball game, having someone like Bumrah with his pace for 24 balls makes a huge difference. India has looked confident even in tough situations and on difficult pitches in America. Their batters, like Rohit Sharma who played a magnificent innings against Australia, seem to be back in form. Honestly, I can’t see India losing this time. England will need something extraordinary to beat them.”

Collingwood spoke On England’s Approach in Knockout Stages “England has a knack for raising their game in knockouts. They somehow manage to play freely without any pressure. I remember the Adelaide match where India set the target. Now, England plays a more aggressive style, especially at the top order, when setting their own totals. This makes their upcoming match against India even more dangerous. England is capable of achieving great things.

“Jos Buttler’s form has improved, and his confidence is high. Having a captain in such good form, with a positive attitude in the dressing room, makes a big difference. It creates a calmer atmosphere. The match-up will be magnificent, with both sides adopting an ultra-aggressive approach. The surface in Guyana will be crucial. On a flat pitch, England has the upper hand with their ability to overpower teams. However, a slow, turning pitch would favour India.”

Also Read: Why is Mark Wood not playing T20 World Cup 2024 Match 49 between England and USA?

Collingwood spoke about England’s previous plans vs India’s current mentality. The former skipper said that back in 2022, India’s game plan was conservative but the approach has changed and they tend to play an attacking brand of cricket from word go.

Collingwood spoke on England’s Plans for India (Previous WC) vs. India’s Current Mentality “The previous plan was to attack India aggressively from the start. However, a team like India can’t be surprised by that tactic. In 2022, when India batted first, we knew we could restrict them. Back then, India played conservatively, especially in the first 10 overs, and then tried to catch up later. But as we discussed, India’s approach has changed. They understand that this strategy won’t win World Cups. They need to take risks, be brave, and express themselves freely.

“This new mentality might be criticized if it fails, but to win World Cups, you need to be ahead of the curve and adapt to what other teams are doing globally. England has been doing this for years. India has just caught up in the recent past. This makes them a much more dangerous opponent. Batting first, they could potentially score a total far beyond England’s reach. That’s the exciting thing about this clash. It’s a great prospect for world cricket – two strong teams going head-to-head.”

Collingwood spoke on the Best Opening Pair (India vs. England) “England shouldn’t compare themselves to other teams. Phil Salt’s performance for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL was remarkable. He’s a true modern-day opener, fearless from the first ball and willing to take risks. Having such a player puts pressure on the opposition. Salt has a great eye and settles in quickly. He doesn’t need many deliveries to get going. However, I’ve noticed that if Salt gets out early, Buttler tends to play more cautiously. On the other hand, against the USA, Buttler went berserk while Salt played a more conservative role. They complement each other well as a partnership. Both are destructive players. If they both have a good day, it will be a thrilling match and very difficult to stop them.”

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