Don’t want England to face Pakistan in semifinals, says Michael Vaughan

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has said that England need to beat Australia in their coming game to avoid clashing with Pakistan in the knockouts. England and Australia are undefeated in Group A and the winner of the upcoming game, on October 30, will most likely qualify as the top-ranked team and will face the second team from another Group in semifinals.

Speaking about Pakistan, the team has been unstoppable in the tournament so far. They ended their 12-match losing streak against India in global events by picking up a thumping 10-wicket win before beating New Zealand and Afghanistan in their next two games. Pakistan now have games left against Scotland and Namibia and in all probabilities, the team should beat them to qualify as the top-ranked team from the group.

Vaughan said he will be happy to face any other team in the semifinal than Pakistan. The Men in Green are on a 14 match winning streak in the UAE and are looking red hot favourites to win the title.

“England vs Australia game is a monster. Whoever wins is going to finish top. I am sure Pakistan are going to finish top in their group,” Vaughan told Cricbuzz.

“I’ll be more than happy to play in the other semi-final and hope someone knocks them (Pakistan) out,” he added.

Meanwhile, England and Australia are set to lock horns at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday.