as England advances to the semifinals of the competition T20 World Cup 2026an interesting subplot emerged involving the team’s leadership and its most decorated veteran. While the Three Lions have looked unstoppable in the Super 8 campaign, their superstar is currently experiencing a rare and painful slump in form. Despite a string of low scores that sparked debate in the global media, Capt Harry Brooke refused to entertain any talk of letting go of the veteran.
In a move that defined his captaincy, Brook used the post-match platform after England’s thriller. New Zealand file a statement of support in objection. Looking at modern icons like the past Virat KohliBrook has placed Buttler on a pedestal above all others in the history of the shorter formats.
Not Virat Kohli: Harry Brook names the best white-ball player to have played the game
In a bold claim that has reverberated through the cricketing world, Brook officially If Buttler as “the best white ball player to ever play the game”. The confirmation comes at a time when Battler’s statistics in the ongoing tournament have been unusually dismal; The veteran scored just 62 runs in seven matches at an average of 8.85 and a strike rate of 106. However, Brook dismissed mounting criticism of Buttler’s place in the XI, urging fans and pundits to look at the bigger picture of his 150-match provisional international career.
“He’s played 150 caps for England and people have to step back a bit. He’s probably the best white-ball player to ever play the game. He’s in a difficult position but it’s exciting to see what he can produce in the next few games. We know his class and he’s about to have a big performance.” Brook said.
T20 World Cup 2026 reaches semi-finals: England flourish despite legend’s struggles
As Buttler searched for his rhythm, the rest of the England team stepped up to secure a place in the semi-finals with a dramatic four-wicket win over New Zealand on Friday. A chase of 160 was in jeopardy when the Kiwis reduced England to 117/6 in the 17th over, but fireworks later Will Jacks and Rehan Ahmed crossed the finish line with three balls to spare.
This victory not only confirmed England’s dominance in Group 2, but also left New Zealand’s fate hanging on the outcome of the competition as a whole. Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Clash in Pallekele. With England now over, the pressure is now on Pakistan, who will have to beat Sri Lanka by a huge margin of 64 runs or chase down the target at 13.1 to leapfrog the Kiwis on Net Run Rate and clinch the final semi-final spot.
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