IND vs ENG, T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal: Curran trusts IPL pedigree as England eyes big-match spark against India
There was a time when touring sides dreaded Indian conditions. Not anymore.
With the game globalised and the Indian Premier League (IPL) widening exposure, most international cricketers are well-versed with subcontinental pitches. England is no exception.
The Wankhede Stadium holds few surprises for the Harry Brook-led side. England has split its six T20Is here, three wins and three losses. More crucially, Will Jacks, Luke Wood, Jofra Archer and Jos Buttler have logged valuable time at the venue through their stints with the Mumbai Indians, a familiarity that could prove vital in a T20 World Cup semifinal against India on Thursday.
Twelve members of England’s 15-man squad are IPL regulars. Years of exposure to high-pressure nights have honed their ability to adapt quickly.
“It’s nice having played here so often. There aren’t many unknowns,” Sam Curran said. A seasoned IPL campaigner himself, Curran has featured at the Wankhede across seasons and appears unfazed by the occasion.
“In (modern) cricket, you don’t really turn up to a stadium concerned. You play at these venues so often that you adjust quickly,” he said.
The players know the crowd and the opposition as they share dressing rooms with many of the Indian players in the IPL. “So, there won’t be many secrets. It will come down to who handles the occasion better and adapts the quickest.” Curran said.
One man England would like to see rediscover touch is Buttler. Though he has endured a lean run this tournament, his record in Mumbai is formidable—553 runs in the IPL, including a highest score of 116. Few know this ground better.
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“I’d certainly rather have Jos Buttler in my team than face him on Thursday night,” Curran said. “He’s a quality player and has delivered for us over many years. He’s done well at this ground, too. Hopefully, Thursday will be his night. But regardless, he’s one of the best in the world.”
Focus will also be on Jacks. While he did not get extended opportunities at Mumbai’s home venue in the IPL, his understanding of the surface could still be handy.
In a format as fickle as T20, favourites count for little. England enters the semifinal unbeaten, hoping to recreate the magic of 2022, when it beat India in the last four en route to the title. To do that, they must manage the conditions, the noise and the weight of expectation.
“Nothing really matters now. It’s a World Cup semifinal,” Curran said. “If there’s ever a time to play our perfect game, it’s Thursday night. In T20 cricket, it only takes a couple of guys to come good with bat and ball.”
Then, with a grin, he added: “It’s a fantastic, iconic stadium. I’m sure it’ll be very quiet on Thursday night.”
His teammates would certainly hope so.
Published on Mar 03, 2026
