England are on the brink of a Cricket World Cup exit after suffering an eight-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka on Thursday.
It what has been one of their all-time worst World Cup performances, England’s exit will likely be confirmed over the weekend, depending on other results.
Jos Buttler’s side have now lost four in five and even if they were to win all of their remaining matches – against India, Australia, the Netherlands and Pakistan – they are still not guaranteed of a semi-final spot.
It was a must-win match for England, who were world champions at the last tournament in 2019, but they were bowled out for just 156 in 33.2 overs as Sri Lanka head coach Chris Silverwood secured revenge over his former team.
‘It’s incredibly tough… A disappointing tournament,’ England captain Buttler said after the loss.
‘We’ve not just been short of our best, but by a very long way. As captain, you feel that a lot. I’m disappointed for myself and all of the boys that we’ve not given a good account of ourselves.
‘There is no clear answer at the moment [on where it is going wrong for England].
‘If there was one golden nugget that we were obviously not doing then we would try to pick that up.
‘I can’t fault the guys’ efforts, we’re just playing a long way short of our best.
‘It starts from the front. As captain, you want to lead from the front and play well. I’ve been a long way short of my best.’
Former England captain Nasser Hussain added: ‘Thoroughly deserved for Sri Lanka.
‘England have been completely out-played in all departments. Jos Buttler can have no complaints, that’s three massive losses now in this tournament.
‘Credit to Sri Lanka, a comprehensive performance from them.’
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