Ashes rivalry takes centerstage in T20 World Cup

image-l9pdoswsJos Buttler-Aaron Finch (Source: Twitter)

England lost their match against Ireland at MCG in the 20th game of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022. This defeat came after England won their first match against Afghanistan. 

This upset can be treated as the biggest in this edition of the T20 World Cup till now. Besides giving a set back to  England's journey in the World Cup, it has added a little more spice to the contest of the arch-rivals, England and Australia. 

Position of the two teams in the points table

Much like England, Australia has also lost one and won one of their first two encounters.  If we take a look at the Group 1, England is currently 3rd in the table, while Australia the 5th. 

England's Net Run Rate at present is +0.144, while that of Australia is -1.555. On Friday the 28th of October, 2022 England and Australia are scheduled to take on each other at the MCG.

Importance of Friday's match

After the two teams play on Friday, England will be left to play with Sri Lanka and New Zealand. While on the other hand Australia will have matches left against, Ireland and Afghanistan. 

Taking into account that if both the teams win their last two matches, then the result of the game of Friday will determine who goes through to next round. However, the last two encounters for England will be tough, as far as the strength of their oppositions are considered and the kind of cricket they are playing at the moment. 

'Ashes' setup for virtual knock out

So, judging the situation of the teams, the match on Friday will be a virtual knock out for both. While England will look to defeat Australia and gain momentum for their last two matches, Australia will try and ensure their semi-final spot with their win against England. 

Speak of rivalries and survival in World Cup, the match will have it all. The spirit of the Ashes will be adding that extra bit of fire to the intent of the players during the match. 

'The Colosseum'  (MCG) is all set to host the gladiators battling it out against each other on the 28th of October.

Also Read: T20 World Cup 2022, ENG vs IRE: England suffer heartbreak as rain plays spoilsport