(AP Photo)
On June 13th, England coach Matthew Mott expressed his hope that Josh Hazlewood’s remarks regarding Australia potentially aiming for a narrow victory over Scotland, leading to England’s elimination from the T20 World Cup, were meant in jest.
England’s Group B debut against Scotland was abandoned due to rain. Following a loss to Australia, the defending champions now need victories in their remaining two matches to match Scotland’s points tally. However, Scotland holds a considerably higher net run rate.
Despite being strong favorites in their upcoming final group match on Saturday, Hazlewood mentioned that Australia would not mind securing a close victory, as it could potentially lead to the end of England’s title defense.
“I am very much hoping it was an off-hand remark by a really good bloke who is having fun,” Australian Mott told BBC Sport.
“Knowing Josh, he has got a pretty dry sense of humour.
“I am hoping it was very much tongue in cheek.”
Speaking to the press after Australia secured one of the Super Eight stage spots in the group, Hazlewood expressed their contentment at potentially eliminating England in the group phase to evade a confrontation with them later in the tournament.
Responding to how Australia could achieve this against Scotland, Hazlewood remarked, “Not entirely sure, maybe aim to keep it close and prolong the game by playing conservatively.” Despite the potential risk of a two-match suspension and a fine for captain Mitchell Marsh if they were found guilty of manipulating the score, former Australia test skipper Tim Paine supported the notion.
“I’m dead serious. You don’t have to lose the game, just let Scotland get close enough,” he said on SEN Radio.
“… if you can knock out one of the most highly fancied teams in the tournament and do it in a way that’s not too bad, or you’re not going to be losing a game, then I’m all for it.”
