Image Source: ICC
[Saba Sports News] England’s comfortable win over co-hosts West Indies marks a positive beginning, according to opener Phil Salt. Reflecting on England’s scratchy start in the 2022 edition before claiming the title, Salt noted that the eight-wicket victory against a strong West Indies team, unbeaten in the group stages, boosts their confidence and momentum.
“I don’t know if you can compare the two but it’s definitely the first step in that direction,” Salt said regarding comparisons with the 2022 campaign. “In tournament play, you need luck at the right time and must build momentum and confidence. I feel like this is the first step in the right direction.
“Firstly, it’s about confidence – you’re going to get bored of me saying confidence and momentum, but it’s crucial. Playing on this ground, knowing the conditions, dimensions, and wind helps. Momentum is key in tournament cricket. The good sides I’ve played in have peaked at the right time.”
Salt, who scored a whirlwind 87* in the chase, attributed his form to the extended run in the side, which boosted his confidence. “The more you play, the more secure you feel in yourself and your game,” he said. “Once you’re settled, you can play your role and take more responsibility.”
He also credited assistant coach Kieron Pollard for his inputs on chasing totals. “Pollard’s brought a lot to the group, especially on constructing run chases. We’ve focused on taking eights from one side to take twelves from the other, making it simple yet effective.”
Salt’s aggressive assault on Romario Shepherd in the 16th over, scoring 30 runs with three fours and three sixes, was a turning point. “I had it in the back of my head,” Salt admitted. “I didn’t tell Jonny [Bairstow] because I didn’t want him to say no, but I felt I had to take that chance.”
Bairstow (48* off 26) also played a crucial role, switching the momentum in England’s favor. England captain Jos Buttler praised Bairstow’s innings, calling it “a really mature, senior player’s innings.”
Despite the loss, West Indies skipper Rovman Powell remains optimistic about their chances in the tournament. “Our destiny is still in our own hands,” Powell said. “We need to continue playing good cricket and pick up the pieces after this loss.”
Powell defended the decision to leave out Obed McCoy, stating it was a tough choice made by the selection group, which didn’t work out on the day. “England played a very good game of cricket tonight,” Powell conceded.