"Morning everyone and Happy Valentine's! What could be more romantic than England and Scotland, that old pair of exes, bumping into each other in a World Cup? Well, one thing that would be even more romantic is if they were to meet in Kolkata on the very same day that they are also meeting in the Calcutta Cup. And lo, it is coming to pass. It's so improbable, it's practically a rom-com already."
"For Scotland's cricketers, who only got their invitation to this party at the last minute, there is, as always, a burning desire to beat the Sassenachs. For the England team, as in all walks of life at all times, there's a burning desire not to be embarrassed. Harry Brook and co. may get a little red in the face just looking at the table for their group."
"England are fourth out of five; Scotland are second, behind only West Indies. Both have two points one win and one defeat apiece but Scotland's win was a thumping one over Italy, while England's was a narrow squeak against Nepal. The upshot is that Scotland's net run rate is vastly superior to that of the so-called professionals from south of the border. And, for England, this game is beginning to resemble a banana skin, when it should have been a deep-fried Mars bar."
England won the toss and Harry Brook chose to bowl, saying he fancies a chase, while Richie Berrington would have batted first. Squad lists include Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Harry Brook and Jofra Archer for England, and George Munsey, Michael Jones, Brandon McMullen and Richie Berrington for Scotland. Scotland sit second in the group with a superior net run rate after a big win over Italy; England are fourth after a narrow victory over Nepal. Scotland accepted a late tournament invitation and remain eager to beat England. The match starts at 3pm in Kolkata with a hot, sunny forecast and no expected rain.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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