Joe Root Backs Jos Buttler to Remain as England’s Limited-Overs Captain Amid T20 World Cup Pressure
Former England Test captain Joe Root has voiced his unwavering support for current white-ball skipper Jos Buttler, who is facing scrutiny following England’s disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup.
England’s 36-run defeat to Australia on Saturday has left them in a precarious position, needing to win their remaining group matches against Oman and Namibia, while hoping for a favorable result in the Australia-Scotland clash. This comes on the heels of their dismal defense of the 50-over World Cup title last year, further intensifying the pressure on Buttler and head coach Matthew Mott.
“Jos is one of my good friends. I think he’s a brilliant captain, so I don’t think there’s any question.”
Root remains confident in Buttler’s ability to guide England through this crucial phase, stating that when England are backed into a corner, they tend to produce their best cricket, and this challenge could bring out the best in the team.
“When it’s all laid out and they’ve got their backs to the wall, which they have in this situation now, is when they play their best cricket. It could really bring the best out of them, so I’ve got no worries whatsoever.”
The former skipper’s unwavering support for Buttler comes as England look to bounce back in their must-win clash with Oman on Thursday, live on Sky Sports Cricket from 7:30 pm (first ball 8 pm).
Mott Hopes Hazlewood’s Comments Were ‘Tongue in Cheek’
Meanwhile, England coach Mott has downplayed the comments made by Australia’s Josh Hazlewood, who suggested that knocking England out of the tournament would be “in our best interests as well as probably everyone else.”
Mott believes Hazlewood’s remarks were likely made in jest, stating, “I think I know Josh pretty well and I know his integrity. He’s got a very good sense of humour. I am hoping it was very much tongue in cheek.”
The Australia-Scotland match on Saturday could prove crucial to England’s chances, as a heavy defeat for Scotland would boost England’s net run-rate and keep their hopes of progressing alive. Mott is hopeful that Australia will continue to play to win, rather than deliberately manipulate the outcome.
“Having grown up in Australia, and the will to win every game, I am sure they will come to the fore. I am very much hoping it was an off-hand remark by a really good bloke who is having fun.”
Regardless of the external factors, Mott is adamant that England must focus on winning their remaining matches against Oman and Namibia, stressing, “That’s all we can do, regardless of any outside noise, qualification, run-rates. We’ve got to win this game.”
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