England’s crucial clash with Australia is in DOUBT at the T20 World Cup

England and Australia’s crunch T20 World Cup match is seriously questionable due to the terrible weather in Melbourne.

Jos Buttler’s squad were set to meet the reigning world champions at the MCG on Friday night, with the English desperate to come back after their dire defeat to Ireland on the same ground two days ago.

However, with Ireland’s match against Afghanistan being canceled at the same venue earlier in the day, there was considerable doubt about Friday night’s blockbuster going ahead due to prolonged showers in the city.

Heavy rain has played a big part in this year’s tournament so far and three of the last four games have been rain related, with weather expected to have a major impact on the teams advancing to the semi-finals.

A draw means Australia and England would each take a point and with Buttler’s side still facing in-form New Zealand, that point keeps them within easy reach of the group leaders and gives them a chance to skip them.

The net run rate is heavily in favor of the Kiwis, due to their massive win over Australia, so England would need a big win over their rivals, plus a win over Sri Lanka, to prepare them for a place in the final. four.

For Aaron Finch’s side, the point also keeps them well in the mix and on paper they have the easier of the last two games compared to England – against Afghanistan and Ireland.

They would need England to beat New Zealand, and to win their matches, to qualify for the semi-finals.

Of course, New Zealand will play Sri Lanka in Sydney tomorrow and if that match is abandoned and the spoils are shared, then England only needs a win – even by the smallest margin – to stay ahead, plus a win over the Sri Lankans.

More to follow.