T20 World Cup: ‘England’s defeat by South Africa not a time for panic, they can be contenders’

England are still attempting to find the perfect balance in their XI – in doing so opting for which of their principles they want to lose the least.

Against South Africa and West Indies they have left out all-rounder Will Jacks and as a result looked a ball-striker light, despite having talked up the importance of having batting depth before the tournament.

They have done so because Mark Wood’s pace, Reece Topley’s left-arm angle and Sam Curran’s left-handed batting have been seen as more vital.

“I wanted to have four seam options so that’s the reason for changing the balance,” Buttler explained.

“Sam gives us that fourth seam option and a left-handed batter.”

Wood, who bowled two wicketless overs for 22, may miss out next.

South Africa’s win was also a reminder of the volatile nature of T20s.

England held all of the cards at halfway, gifted them away and won them back, only for South Africa snatch back possession at the death by conceding only 17 runs in the last three overs when 25 were needed.

It is on such fine margins this World Cup will be decided.

Having come through four tight matches to remain unbeaten at this tournament, the Proteas will be one of those fancying their chances.

Australia have looked the strongest side so far but have had their wobbles.

India have progressed unbeaten but debate remains around their issues at the top of their order, in particular.

A new champion will be crowned in Barbados in a week’s time and there is still no clear favourite.

In three meetings against their title rivals England have lost two.

But against South Africa, and in the win prior against West Indies, they showed enough to suggest that if they improve they can still be contenders.