NewKerala.com

Ashwin Backs Buttler-Salt as England's T20 World Cup Opening Pair

Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly backed the opening combination of Jos Buttler and Phil Salt for England in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup. He highlighted their aggressive approach and ability to dominate the powerplay, as seen in England's recent 3-0 series win over Sri Lanka. Ashwin addressed concerns about Phil Salt's minor injury, expressing confidence the batter will be fit for the tournament. He believes Buttler's vast experience in Asian conditions combined with Salt's current form gives England a significant edge.

Key Points: Ashwin Picks Buttler & Salt to Open for England in T20 WC

  • Ashwin advocates for Buttler-Salt opening pair
  • Highlights England's powerplay dominance
  • Notes Salt's fitness is not a major concern
  • Stresses Buttler's experience in Asian conditions
2 min read

Ashwin Backs Buttler-Salt opening pair for England in ICC Men's T20 World Cup

Ravichandran Ashwin says he would "love to see" Jos Buttler and Phil Salt open for England in the T20 World Cup, citing their powerplay dominance.

"From my side, I would love to see Phil Salt and Jos Buttler open for England - Ravichandran Ashwin"

New Delhi, February 4

Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin said that he would "love to see Phil Salt and Jos Buttler open" for England in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup, following the side's dominant 3-0 whitewash of Sri Lanka in the recent T20I series.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin highlighted England's aggressive approach at the top of the order and their ability to control the powerplay with the bat.

He noted that England has experimented with their opening options, at times using Ben Duckett alongside Phil Salt instead of Jos Buttler.

"England are coming into the T20 World Cup after whitewashing Sri Lanka 3-0 in the three-match T20I series at their home. England dominate the powerplay with the bat. The opening combination of Phil Salt and Jos Buttler needs some discussion because, at times, they have tried Duckett with Salt," Ashwin said.

Ashwin, however, made a strong case for Buttler and Salt to open together in the T20 World Cup. Addressing concerns around Salt's recent fitness, he added, "I think Phil Salt has had a minor injury recently, but I believe he will play during the T20 World Cup."

The former Indian cricketer stressed that the combination of Buttler's experience and Salt's current form could give England a decisive edge, particularly in Asian conditions, with Buttler having vast experience. "From my side, I would love to see Phil Salt and Jos Buttler open for England because Buttler has huge experience in Asian conditions, and Salt is at the peak of his powers," Ashwin said.

Buttler, a two-time ICC Championship title winner, is also part of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, which starts on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.

The Three Lions have announced their squad for the upcoming ICC tournament, with star batter Harry Brook named captain. The Three Lions will kick their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign off against Nepal on February 8.

England squad for T20 World Cup:

Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Interesting analysis from Ashwin Anna! Always insightful. But honestly, as an Indian fan, I'm more focused on our own team's combination. Let England worry about theirs. Our bowling needs to be ready for any opening pair they throw at us.
D
David E
Respectfully, I think Ashwin is slightly off the mark here. Ben Duckett offers a left-right combination and has been in sublime touch. Salt-Buttler is explosive but can be similar. Duckett's spin game might be more crucial in Asian conditions. Just my two cents.
A
Ananya R
Salt and Buttler together is a nightmare for any bowling attack, especially in the first 6 overs. Bumrah and Arshdeep will have their work cut out if we face them! Exciting cricket ahead.
V
Vikram M
Good to see our experts analyzing other teams so deeply. Shows the level of preparation. England is always a threat in white-ball. Hope the Men in Blue are watching and planning accordingly. Jai Hind!
S
Sarah B
As a neutral fan living in India, I enjoy Ashwin's technical breakdowns. He's right about Buttler's Asia experience from the IPL. It does make them a formidable pair. Can't wait for the World Cup to begin!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50