Return of Buttler and Stokes can build on Pakistan triumph

ENGLAND’S historic return to Pakistan came with the caveat that an extended seven-match T20 series may outstay even its most spectacular of welcomes, but instead it delivered a streak of gripping contests, flourishing narratives and a showpiece decider in Lahore, which the tourists won to seal a 4-3 victory.

- Malik Ouzia

The tight finishes, in particular, will prove valuable experience down the track for what was, in part, an inexperienced, transitional group. But, with a T20 World Cup now only a fortnight away, there is a more immediate reality that offers small cause for concern: while England’s four victories were comprehensive, two of their three defeats were by narrow margins.

In other words, when nails were for biting, England tended to lose, and as they know only too well, for all the ball is expected to fly off the bat Down Under, few international tournaments are won without getting down and dirty.