England's Performance Lacking; Prior Calls for Improvement Ahead of Champions Trophy
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Synopsis
On February 10, former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior criticized the Jos Buttler-led team's performance as 'sloppy' and 'lacklustre' after their ODI defeat to India in Cuttack, urging for enhancements in various areas before the Champions Trophy.
Key Takeaways
- Matt Prior labels England's ODI loss as 'sloppy'.
- England needs improvement ahead of the Champions Trophy.
- India chased down 305 runs with 33 balls to spare.
- England lost crucial moments, allowing India to capitalize.
- Upcoming ODI in Ahmedabad could lead to a series sweep.
New Delhi, Feb 10 (NationPress) Former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior described the Jos Buttler-led team as “sloppy” and “lacklustre” following their ODI series loss to India in Cuttack. He emphasized that they must enhance their performance in several areas before the Champions Trophy.
Initially opting to bat at the Barabati Stadium on Sunday, Joe Root and Ben Duckett scored 69 and 65 runs respectively, while Liam Livingstone contributed a solid 41, leading England to a significant total of 304 in 49.5 overs. However, they faltered by losing their last seven wickets for a mere 85 runs, despite being well-positioned to exceed their eventual score.
Despite surpassing the 300-run mark, England's efforts fell short as India successfully chased down the target, with Rohit Sharma scoring a brilliant 119, marking his 32nd ODI century, enabling India to win with 33 balls remaining.
Previously, England had suffered a 1-4 defeat in the T20I series against India and now face the prospect of a series whitewash if India wins the upcoming dead rubber ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.
“You could tell they haven’t played 50-over cricket in a while. Sloppy errors were evident. The talent and ability are present, but they must refine their approach in several areas. The squad is talented, but execution on the field is crucial,” stated Prior on TNT Sport.
Former England fast bowler Steven Finn noted India's ability to capitalize on crucial moments, securing the ODI series ahead of schedule. “If India spots a weakness, especially with their top players returning, they will exploit it,” he remarked.
“England had India under pressure in the opening nine overs, but a hallmark of a strong team is their ability to seize opportunities, just as India did in key moments of the match,” he added.
