Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes England possess a stronger spin attack than India and says he has a “funny feeling” they can win Thursday’s T20 World Cup semi-final in Mumbai.
Speaking on the Test Match Special podcast, Vaughan highlighted England’s resilience after five consecutive victories, despite not delivering a complete performance throughout the tournament.
Spin the Deciding Factor?
Vaughan pointed to the trio of Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, and Will Jacks as the standout spin unit of the competition.
“England has a better spin attack than India,” he said, suggesting India’s Varun Chakravarthy has been targeted in key matches.
India, co-hosts and pre-tournament favourites, suffered a Super 8s defeat to South Africa and have not been entirely convincing. However, they remain a formidable force, especially at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, where partisan support is expected.
Key Battle in Mumbai
The clash marks the third successive T20 World Cup semi-final between the sides. England crushed India by 10 wickets in 2022 before India gained revenge in 2024. Both teams went on to lift the trophy in those respective years, as reported by BBC Sport.
All-rounder Sam Curran said England can model their approach on the dominant 2022 victory, acknowledging the intense atmosphere awaiting them in Mumbai.
Buttler Under Pressure
Captain Jos Buttler has struggled for form, registering five single-figure scores in a row. Vaughan suggested the opener may be overthinking his technique, urging him to trust his natural hand-eye coordination.
With spin strength, sharp fielding, and composure in tight finishes, England believes it has the tools. But against a “fearsome” India side on home soil, execution under pressure will decide who reaches the final.
The Men’s T20 World Cup semi-final between England and India will take place on 5 March at 13:30 GMT.
