England have marched into the semi-finals with a game to spare, yet bowling coach Tim Southee remains quietly intrigued by the prospect of delivering a complete performance, something he feels the side has not fully achieved in this year’s tournament.
Despite a dominant run in the subcontinent, highlighted by a T20 series win over Sri Lanka and a near-flawless group stage campaign, Southee believes there is still another level his team can reach.
“I think everyone wants to go out and do well. I think it’s a great sign on this side. We’ve only dropped one game in the last however many games, and we’ve won in different ways. We haven’t played the perfect game or played a complete performance across all three formats, but we’ve still found ways to win. If it does come off and we do have the perfect game, then it should be a great one to witness,” said Southee as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Will Jacks has emerged as a genuine X-factor for England, delivering a career-best all-round display against Sri Lanka in the Super Eights, where he claimed 3 for 22. The dynamic all-rounder also lit up the tournament with the fastest T20 World Cup fifty by an England player, a blistering 21-ball half-century against Italy.
Meanwhile, Liam Dawson has provided the defensive control that bowling coach Tim Southee values highly. Dawson has been pivotal in grinding out tough victories, expertly strangling opposition momentum in pressure situations. His 3 for 24 against Pakistan helped restrict them to a manageable target and ultimately sealed England’s place in the semi-finals.
“It’s been brilliant how we’ve been able to win in different ways and different guys stepping up. A lot of the time, probably the guys that aren’t as well known for being the dangerous players – Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, guys like that who have come in and had big impacts, [Liam] Dawson. To sit here being already qualified with a game to go is only a good thing,” said Southee.
A significant part of Southee’s brief as bowling coach is fine-tuning one of the most formidable pace attacks in world cricket. He reserved particular praise for Jofra Archer, who has steadily rebuilt his rhythm after a lengthy injury layoff. Southee hinted at the unique challenge of coaching someone of Archer’s rare ability, a bowler blessed with what appears to be an almost limitless skill set.
“He’s obviously a class bowler. He’s inquisitive; he loves cricket, loves chatting cricket. I think the last few games he’s sort of kicked into another gear. He’s got such a great skill set – somebody who can bowl fast, move the ball, unbelievable amount of skill. Sometimes it’s almost having too much skill and just trying to narrow down on what’s effective at the time. The good sign is that we’ve seen over the last few games he looks like he’s getting better and better, so that bodes well for the next few games,” said Southee.
As the tournament shifts toward trickier, spin-friendly surfaces, Southee believes England possess the balance required to adapt. With conditions expected to demand greater tactical flexibility, Southee feels England’s combination of pace, spin and multi-skilled all-rounders mirrors the versatility long associated with New Zealand.
“We’ve seen spin play such a big part here; it’s a big ground and offered plenty for the spinners. But it doesn’t mean seamers can’t have an impact. I think we’ve got a very well-balanced side. Having the ability to have guys that if it is seam-friendly or spin-friendly to be able to chop and change, much like the New Zealand side… it’s very handy to have. So I think both sides have got pretty well-balanced line-ups that can cover both pace and seam,” said Southee.
The upcoming clash against New Zealand carries a personal edge for Southee. Having grown up dreaming of representing the Black Caps, finding himself in the opposite dugout still feels surreal.
“Yeah, it is a little bit strange seeing the guys around the hotel. You always want New Zealand cricket to do well, always following them closely. But now in the role that I’m in, things are slightly different. I’m looking forward to going out there against a good side and some good mates as well,” said Southee.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to work with such a great side and I’ve loved the time I’ve had. I’d love to continue working with these guys, love working with Brendan and the other coaches as well,” he added.
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