Hunter credits shift in tactics for England deaf’s success

ENGLAND Visually Impaired skipper Luke Sugg believes his side are now in the best possible shape to take on Pakistan, after edging out the West Indies and reaching the semi-finals of the Blind World Cup.

Sugg’s charges notched up a sixwicket victory in Bangalore on Thursday, chasing down 232-4 at the Karnataka State Cricket Association Ground. England will be up against it when they lock horns with unbeaten Pakistan, who beat them comprehensively during the tournament’s earlier stages.

But with an opportunity to face either hosts India or Sri Lanka in the final, Sugg is optimistic that having been pushed hard by the Windies, England will be ready for action.

“It feels fantastic,” he said. “We knew they would be a strong side with the bat. It was great preparation for the semi to be pushed like that. Pakistan won’t be easy but we know now that we can chase big scores.We’ve talked about how we can adapt to their strengths and really take the game to Pakistan.We can’t wait.”

After starring against Australia with half centuries the day beforehand, it was once again the Peter Blueitt and Justin Hollingsworth show for England. Blueitt is now averaging over 168 for the tournament after another huge contribution of 74 not out, while Hollingsworth notched up 47 off 25 balls before he was run out by Alvin James.

Edward Hossell also chipped in with 64 off 36 balls, plundering nine fours along the way, to ensure England chased down their target with five balls remaining.

Hossell had also contributed with the ball, removing James caught and bowled before running out Lo-Shane Myles when he was well set on 55. It was Dennal Shim however who had set the pace for the Windies, reaching an impressive 106 off 61 balls, including 15 fours, to help them set their competitive target. But after Hossell and opening partner Matthew Dean smashed 45 runs off the opening three overs, England were always ahead of the rate, and head coach Ross Hunter credits that to a change of tactics.

He said: “We have a nice mix of batters and the recipe is there to score 270-300 – we just have to put it into practice now.”