WEATHER IN MELBOURNE

look after yourself, and of course there’s always plenty to play for.

“You’re never quite sure how long things are going to last for you as a player or as an era, as such. But certainly, you don’t come down these roads very often, whether you’re a youngster or you’re into your 30s. Of course, the chances are going to be fewer and fewer when you’re a bit older. But that just gives you that added determination and drive to try and make it happen.” Between the teams, England are probably more on the cusp of history. Under Eoin Morgan, England reached the semi-finals in all ICC events since the 2015 World Cup where they were eliminated in the group phase.

Under Buttler, there is a possibility to extend that legacy. England have been on the threshold of this glory before, till Carlos Brathwaite smoked four sixes in a row at Eden Gardens in the 2016 final.

More excited than nervous: Babar

Pakistan are under pressure as well. “I’m more excited than nervous since we’ve performed well in our last three matches,” said Pakistan captain Babar Azam. “It is no doubt that pressure exists but it can only be suppressed with confidence and belief in ourselves. And for good results it is pertinent that one must do so.”

England are in a better position, having gone through a heart-stopping World Cup final in 2019. They know exactly what it takes to win a World Cup. “Of course, we’re still reaping the rewards of Eoin Morgan’s tenure and the changes that have happened in the white-ball game in England. That’s clear to see in the strength and depth of the talent we now have in the whiteball game in England. We’re very much right in the back of that wave, of course, but there’s a bit of a new direction, as well,” said Buttler.

Pakistan may well feel they are living in the past. Mentions of 1992 come up every second instance as Babar Azam tries to keep it relevant till he admits there have been comparisons with that campaign. “Yes. I believe we couldn’t start off well but we came back with great momentum. In the previous 3-4 matches, Pakistan have played very well on both individual and team levels. We’ve been working really hard for this. It feels like a dream come true to reach the final.”