England’s speedster Mark Wood is ready to spend one evening as an Australia fan as the defending champions’ chances of making it to the T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 now rely on the rivals’ hands.
Wood, who was part of England’s T20 World Cup-winning team in 2022, admitted that Scotland and Australia are their rivals but he will be supporting the Aussies.
“I know I’m close to the Scottish border and Australia and Scotland are England’s rivals… but we’ll obviously be supporting Australia because we’re trying to get through,” Wood said.
“We have got to show a little bit more and then fingers crossed for Australia. Then when you are through to that next stage every team can go on from there.
“I’m absolutely confident they’ll play the game their hardest, that’s the Australian way. They’ll play hard and fair and try to get the win.”
He also responded to Josh Hazlewood’s comments who said that it would be in Australia's best interests to lose to Scotland so England are out.
“I think I saw it more as a respect thing if I’m honest,” the English pacer said. “He was saying England have done well against Australia in the recent past and he thinks we’re a big threat. I had no problem with it. It’s all part of England versus Australia.”
Against Oman, England chased down the 48-run target in just 3.1 overs after bowling the opposition for just 47.
England now have three points after three games. Their first match against Scotland was washed out due to rain before their loss against Australia in the second game.
To qualify for the Super 8 stage, England not only need to win their remaining match against Namibia but also hope Scotland lose to Australia.
Both teams would be tied on five points. In that case, the NRR will be of utmost importance.
- Mark Wood
