Collingwood’s Assessment of England’s Efforts Proves the Most Accurate

England go out of another World Cup, everyone’s up in arms. But in reality, Collingwood’s men did just about as well as their abilities deserved…

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After a valiant struggle, England eventually succumbed to the enemy they perhaps knew best.

The rain.

It may be debatable whether or not West Indies are an inferior side to England, but the fact of the matter is that 80 runs in nine overs (with 10 wickets to play with) is an easier target than 162 in 20 overs (with the same number of wickets). When you know the opposition as well as England and the Windies know each other, such an advantage is only magnified.

England struggled valiantly, but the composure and quality of Ramnaresh Sarwan and Shivnarine Chanderpaul proved more than enough.

England captain Paul Collingwood stuck by his side after the defeat.