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England head into the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with momentum firmly on their side and expectations soaring. A recent 3-0 whitewash over Sri Lanka in a home T20I series has once again highlighted the depth, balance, and sheer firepower in their squad. Under the leadership of Harry Brook, England boast a lineup packed with proven match-winners across departments.
From the explosive pace of Jofra Archer to the versatility of Sam Curran, and from the spin wizardry of Adil Rashid to the all-round promise of Jacob Bethell, England look like a complete T20 outfit. Add power-hitters such as Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, and Will Jacks, and it is easy to see why many consider them among the favourites for the title.
Who should open for England? Ravichandran Ashwin gives his verdict
The question of England’s opening combination, however, has sparked debate, and former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has weighed in with a clear preference. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin analysed England’s powerplay dominance and the options available at the top of the order.
Ashwin pointed out that England have experimented with different combinations in recent times, particularly involving Ben Duckett alongside Salt. While Duckett offers stability and a left-handed option, Ashwin believes England’s most destructive pairing comes when Buttler and Salt open together.
“England dominate the powerplay with the bat. The opening combination of Phil Salt and Jos Buttler needs some discussion because, at times, they have tried Duckett with Salt,” Ashwin explained, noting that the Buttler–Salt combination maximises early scoring pressure.
Addressing concerns around Salt’s recent fitness niggle, Ashwin remained optimistic, suggesting the issue was minor and unlikely to rule him out of the tournament. For Ashwin, the logic is simple: Buttler’s vast experience, especially in Asian conditions, combined with Salt’s current form and fearless approach, gives England their best chance of setting the tone early in matches.
“From my side, I would love to see Phil Salt and Jos Buttler open for England because Buttler has huge experience in Asian conditions, and Salt is at the peak of his powers,” added Ashwin.
High expectations from two-time champions
England’s ambitions at the 2026 edition are underlined by history. They are two-time T20 World Cup champions, having lifted the trophy in 2010 and again in 2022. No team has yet managed to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup three times, and England will be eager to break new ground.
Alongside India and West Indies, England currently share the record for the most T20 World Cup titles, with two each. With a squad blending experience and youth, and clarity slowly emerging around key roles like the opening combination, expectations are naturally high.
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