Brendon McCullum is enjoying England’s bid for a third World T20 title and believes his side have shown the tactical flexibility to succeed.
England’s 2-1 ODI win against Sri Lanka, who had won the previous seven 50-over series on home soil, has boosted confidence ahead of the tournament.
That belief only grew after a clean-up in the 1920s.
England start their campaign against Nepal in Mumbai on Sunday and should overcome a group that also includes the West Indies, Scotland and Italy.
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(Robbie Stephenson/PA)
To demand
McCullum knows big challenges await him in the tournament – which is co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka – but is optimistic about their chances.
“I’m excited about the World Cup and the demands associated with it,” McCullum said after the 3-0 T20 win in Kandy.
“We’re going to have to be very smart in how we deal with the different contradictions and circumstances that we face, but we’re going to have to be very excited about what that entails.
“Obviously, based on our performance here and in the ODIs, I think we are extremely pleased with the work we have done so far.
“The way we have been able to adapt to different circumstances, the style we have brought and the tactical insight we have shown.”
England’s spinners claimed nine wickets in the 12-run win in the third T20.
Adil Rashid played a leading role throughout the tour. Liam Dawson, Will Jacks and Jacob Bethell have backed him while Rehan Ahmed waits in the wings.
(AP photo/Eromina van Jayersa).
Delighted
Spin will play a big role in England’s chances of progressing in the tournament, and McCullum has praised the way his options have excelled in Sri Lanka.
“Tonight (third T20) was another example of a team willing to change tactically and play the situation as necessary,” McCullum added.
“To bowl 16 overs of spin, defending a low total on a surface playing its third game was what was required.
“The group’s request and investment to recognize that and go all-in on that strategy is hugely satisfying when you look at it from a coaching perspective because you know they’re trying to resist what’s in front of us and we’re going to need that for some time to come.”
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