ICC World Cup 2023: Australia still have a long way to go

England and Australia, two of the pre-tournament favourites alongside hosts India, face an uphill battle to reach the World Cup semifinals.

England are in big trouble after their shock defeat to Afghanistan in New Delhi on Sunday.

Australia may have earned their first win of the campaign with a five-wicket victory against Sri Lanka on Monday, but the five-time champions are still not looking comfortable on the slow surfaces.

At the moment, India, New Zealand and South Africa are on the right track to reach the semis.

Defending champions England face an uphill task and cannot afford another slip-up. Their remaining games are against South Africa, India, Pakistan, Australia, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands.

Jos Buttler's team need to win at least five of these six matches to take their points tally to 12. They also have to win big to improve their net run rate.

England's biggest problem now seems to be their batting. Loaded with big hitters, they are struggling on pitches with a bit of grip.

For them to bounce back from this position, Joe Root will have to be at his best as the classy Englishman can lead the way against the quality spinners of India, South Africa and Sri Lanka.

If Root can build the platform for shot-makers like Jonny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone and Buttler, it will be easier for England to find their groove.

England's biggest rival, Australia, also looked out of sorts in their first two games against India and Australia.

But the Aussies fought back well against Sri Lanka after conceding a big first-wicket partnership to Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera on Monday.

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