CWC 2019: ENG vs AUS – Despite defeat, Captain Morgan confident of England’s chances
England crumbled to their third loss of the World Cup 2019 as they went down to Australia at Lord’s by 64 runs. A loss against the arch-rivals at the home of cricket also jeopardises their chances of finishing in the top four. Before the tournament began, the likelihood of England not appearing in the semi-finals was hardly considered. However, the number one ODI team in the world have suffered three losses in total and may end up as a mere spectator for the knockout games.
English captain Eoin Morgan is far from considering the prospect of falling out of the top four. After the jarring loss against Australia, Morgan confessed that their team confidence has taken a slight hit but insisted that their campaign is still salvageable.
Speaking in the post-match conference, England skipper said, “I think it (confidence) will take a little bit of a hit. But I certainly don’t think it’s knocked anybody in the changing room. Normally when we lose games of cricket, like I mentioned yesterday, we go back to what we do well. We’ll still strive to do that for Sunday’s game.
“The chances are in our hands. Everything is within our control. We just need to produce a performance worthy of winning either one or the next two games,” Morgan added.
After seven matches, England is currently positioned at the fourth place with eight points. The tournament favourites will need to win both their remaining matches to seal a semi-final without worrying about other results. England face India and New Zealand in their last two games.
Yesterday’s loss at Lord’s was England’s fourth consecutive defeat at the hands of Australia in World Cup. The last time English lions ended up on the winning side was in 1992. Asked whether the team has a mental block against the Aussies, Morgan replied with a confident one-word answer, “No.” When questioned further, the skipper replied, “I’ve only played against them in two World Cups … I’m 32 years old.”
Question: In World Cups you haven’t beaten Aus in 29 years. Is there even on a subconscious level a fear of them?
E Morgan: No.
Question: Why?
E Morgan: Because I’ve only played against them in 2 World Cups. 29 years doesn’t mean – I’m 32 years old. Thanks mate, nice.#CWC19 pic.twitter.com/CV9ltBV0PZ
— Saj Sadiq (@Saj_PakPassion) June 25, 2019
England plays India next on 30th June (Sunday) at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
