Scotland Match: Hazlewood and Team Eyeing England's Elimination

Australia has confirmed their spot in the Super Eight as the first team from Group 'B' in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. They have won all three of their matches so far. Australia's last group stage match will be against Scotland. However, this match is of no significance for the Aussies in terms of victory; their focus lies elsewhere.

Australia will take on Scotland with the aim of eliminating England from the tournament. Scotland stands as a barrier on England's path to the Super Eight. If the Scottish team defeats Australia, England’s elimination from the tournament will be guaranteed.

How can Australia miss the opportunity to knock their arch-rivals England out of the tournament from the group stage itself? Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood hinted at this in the press conference after their win against Namibia.

Hazlewood stated, "In this tournament, we might have to face England repeatedly. They are a team that can do anything on their day in T20 cricket. So, if we can knock them out of the tournament early, it would be best for us and probably for everyone else as well."

Hazlewood further commented, "It would be interesting if that happens. As a team, we haven't been in such a situation before. So, we will try to keep playing the way we did today. It depends on everyone, not just me alone."

The current world champions are at risk of elimination due to one loss and one washed-out match. To advance to the Super Eight, they must win their remaining two matches and hope for a Scottish loss.

It's not just about winning; the run rate also comes into play. England needs to have a better run rate than Scotland to secure a spot in the Super Eight.