England in crisis as they face elimination from World Cup
Reigning champions have three losses in four games and look lost in India
The weather in India is not the primary cause of England's current heat wave. With three losses in four games, the reigning champions have fallen into a chasm and could be eliminated from the fight for the semifinals sooner than they ever would have dreamed.
They get to start the process of a potential comeback on Thursday when they play Sri Lanka in Bangalore. Given how knotted up the islanders are, this may be England's finest opportunity to get their act together and reveal who they really are.
It's odd how England, a team rich in skill and strength, has struggled in India. Not only have they been outmatched by historically formidable sides like New Zealand and South Africa, but they have also been humiliated by Afghanistan, a side that is still not considered to be among the best in cricket.
England's batsmen have been largely to blame for their problems. It appears like Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow have left their form and reputation at home. The team that uses their aggressive "Bazball" game to terrorize opponents in the Test arena has looked unprofessional in their surrenders.
The most successful pacemaker in their lineup this World Cup, Reece Topley, is gone, which exacerbates the situation. Topley's finger is broken.
Overall, England appears to be devastated, its confidence shattered. Even Ben Stokes hasn't been able to elevate their spirits, but the Bangalore ground, which is renowned for lavishing large totals, can provide a helpful hand.
Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Press Time staff and has been published from a syndicated feed.
