Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif urged England to follow Joe Root’s approach instead of Bazball after their winless 2025 Champions Trophy, stressing that their poor performance proved they can’t rely on one style across formats.
Jos Buttler and his team ended their campaign without a single victory, suffering a crushing seven-wicket defeat to South Africa in Karachi. While England had posted 300+ totals in their previous two matches, they collapsed against the Proteas, managing just 179 in 38.2 overs.
South Africa easily chased down the target in under 30 overs. Following England’s loss, Mohammad Kaif took to X, highlighting how Root was the backbone of their batting lineup, scoring 68, 120, and 37 in the tournament.
“England’s early exit once again proves ‘one nation, one style’ doesn’t work. You can’t blindly follow Bazball across formats. Successful teams win as they adjust to conditions. Follow Joe Root, not Bazball.”
https://x.com/mohammadkaif/status/1895878972329865418?s=46
Buttler, who has already resigned as captain, struggled significantly, scoring a sluggish 21 off 43 balls without hitting a single boundary. Adding to their woes, England also conceded the highest-ever total in Champions Trophy history, allowing Australia to chase down 352 after posting 351/8.
Jos Buttler sees a crucial chance for England to rebuild from here
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Buttler admitted that England had underperformed in all aspects throughout the eight-team tournament. However, he believes both players and support staff now have an opportunity to regroup and rebuild ahead of the 2027 World Cup. The 34-year-old stated:
“As a group we are obviously not getting the results and that takes away some confidence. It is time for everyone to go away, have a change of scenery and work hard for wherever cricket takes them next.”
“From this point forward, there is a huge opportunity for everyone inside the dressing room, and obviously people outside the dressing room, to really put their hand up and say they want to be part of the rebuild of the England white-ball teams.”
England’s next ODI series is scheduled for May-June, where they will host the West Indies.
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