T20 World Cup 2024

‘We’re an incredibly dangerous side’ – Jos Buttler sends stern warning to Pakistan ahead of 20-20 World Cup final

As England beat India in the second semi-final of the 20-20 World Cup 2022 on Thursday, England and Pakistan confirmed their spots for the final of the mega event. The two teams will lock horns on Sunday at the MCG to clinch the coveted trophy for the second time. Ahead of the mega clash England captain Jos Buttler termed his team a dangerous side.

“I think we’re a good team, I think that’s probably where the performance comes from. Some brilliant players in the team. When they play their best, we’re a tough team to beat. Incredibly dangerous side, huge confidence in the group,” Buttler said in the pre-match press conference.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan team’s Mentor Matthew Hayden backed his team’s pace attack to do the damage against England in the finals. He further said that India missed a leg-spinner in the semi-final and Pakistan have enough options to bowl leg spin to pose a threat to England.

“We’ve got four quicks that really make an impact and can create some sustainable damage inside 20 overs. One of the things I think India was really missing last night in the bowling department was a leg-spinning option – really a sixth bowling option. Our side has six genuine options and a seventh as well should it be required. So I think the bases are covered,” said Hayden.

Heavy rainfall expected on the day of the final

Both Pakistan and England will be looking to clinch their second title of the 20-20 World Cup on Sunday having won the World Cup in 2009 and 2010 respectively. Pakistan won its first World Cup in 2009 when they beat Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the final and England won it a year later defeating Australia by seven wickets in the final.

With all eyes set on the big day on Sunday, rain is also expected to play spoilsport in the finals. There is an 80 percent chance of showers forecast and even severe thunderstorms for Sunday in Melbourne. A reserve day has been kept on Monday but the weather is again expected to be unfavourable with a 70% chance of showers expected. In case the match gets washed out, the trophy will be shared between the two teams.

A minimum of 10 overs per side is needed to constitute a game, compared to five during the group stages. If the match starts on Sunday but isn’t finished, it will resume on Monday from where it was halted.