Harry Brook says England were too careful in their 30 run defeat to West Indies in Mumbai and admitted that the lack of intent cost his side in a key Group C match of the T20 World Cup.
Chasing 197, England fell short with an over to spare. The loss leaves them third in the group on net run rate, behind Scotland. However, Brook said the win over Nepal in their first match has kept them in a safe position for now.
“Thank god we won against Nepal the other night,” Brook said. “Otherwise we would be in a tricky situation.”
England fall short in chase
West Indies posted 196 for 6 after being asked to bat first. Sherfane Rutherford led the charge with an unbeaten 76. He rebuilt the innings from 55 for 3 and later added a quick 61-run stand with Jason Holder, who scored 33 from 17 balls.
England started well in the chase. Phil Salt scored 30 of the first 38 runs inside the first four overs. But once the powerplay ended, the West Indies spinners took control. Roston Chase, Gudakesh Motie and Akeal Hosein slowed the scoring rate and picked up key wickets.
Motie finished with 3 for 33, including the wickets of Tom Banton and Brook. England managed only six sixes compared to the West Indies’ 13. Sam Curran remained unbeaten on 43 but did not get enough support at the other end.
Brook admits lack of intent
Brook said he expected the dew to make batting easier in the second innings. After winning the toss, he chose to chase, thinking the ball would skid on. But that did not happen.
“We were probably a little bit careful, myself included,” Brook said. “I would much rather be caught on the boundary.”
He also said that with power hitters like Will Jacks and Jamie Overton still to come, he could have taken more risks earlier.
Despite the defeat, England remain in a good position to qualify for the Super 8 stage. They next face Scotland in Kolkata, followed by Italy. Brook believes the team still has the strength to chase big totals but knows they must show more courage in the coming games.
