ENGLAND'S CRICKET NIGHTMARE: DEFENDING CHAMPION STRUGGLES IN 2023 WORLD CUP

As the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup unfolds, world champion England's campaign has taken an unexpected and distressing turn, leaving fans disheartened by the sharp decline in their performance since their triumphant victory in 2019. Today, England faces a critical encounter against India in the 29th match of the tournament, set to take place at Lucknow's Ekana Stadium.

- SUNIL YASH KALRA

England's struggles have been pronounced, with their latest setback being a humiliating eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Sri Lanka. This loss encapsulates their difficulties in this World Cup, where they were bowled out for a mere 156 runs, a stark contrast to their previous glory. The magnitude of their woes is reflected in their inability to secure a World Cup victory against Sri Lanka since 1999.

The defending champions find themselves in a dire situation, having endured three consecutive losses, including a devastating 229run defeat against South Africa and a historic upset against Afghanistan. This perilous journey to defend their title has placed their campaign on shaky ground.