In fairness though, that would have been said about us in the early 2010s. First losing Dimi, Briggs and Macca. Then Carberry, Adams and Ervine reaching their sell-by dates. Benks chucking Wheater out didn't help either (the only keeper we've ever had, other than Pothas, who can actually bat in t20). We've never really replaced any of them, although Will Smith did a sterling job with the ball for a few years. Vince and Dawson have largely carried our t20 team for about four years now. And no obvious signs from the youngsters/reserves this season that they could do a job for us going forward in t20 - save maybe for the odd bright spark from Holland.
Donald Vince Rossouw Northeast Dawson Alsop (W) Holland Wood Abbott Afridi Crane Would've be a pretty decent XI, we never stood a chance with the depletion this year. Could even have had Brad Taylor in for Mason if we wanted a stronger batting line up.
Unlucky guys, that looked a decent target. Crawley has come along way in the last 12 months and should only improve. Very good in all formats of the game. He was in one of those moods today.
Bairstow goes to 101 with a brilliant 6 off Cummings, then gets a straight-driven 4. England starting to accelerate now. 209-4 after 37 overs.
Fantastic recovery by England after the worst possible start. Brilliant 50 from Woakes, too. England finish on 302-7. Would it be tempting fate to say no one has ever chased anything like that score at OT?