England aren’t Short on hope

ENGLAND were thrown an unexpected lifeline to take into their Tri-Nations T20 clash with New Zealand tomorrow.

The Kiwis lost by five wickets when Australia completed the highest ever successful run chase, reaching their target of 245 with seven balls left. D’Arcy Short (top) scored 76 off 44 balls.

England could join Australia in the final with a win that also overhauls the Kiwis’ superior net run-rate, but will be without Liam Plunkett, who has a hamstring injury.

David Willey welcomed Ben Stokes (above) with an embrace in the foyer of the team hotel yesterday. “He’s great for England,” said Willey. “The sooner he’s back, the better.”