Letting go of Test cricket has revived the one-day captain who stands on the threshold of making a golden generation double world champions
England are just one great spell or innings away from this generation achieving its potential. To become the first team to hold both World Cups would be a rightful crowning of such a special group of players and the MCG offers a glittering stage worthy of such a moment.
Rarely does such a talented crop fulfil expectations. Many golden generations in all sports lose their sheen in finals or at the business end of tournaments. To win just the one World Cup in 2019 would seem something of a let down given the talent England boast.
At the forefront, the talisman, is Jos Buttler. His calm captaincy was learned at the feet of Eoin Morgan, his marshalling of bowlers and poker face just what was needed in a cauldron full of screaming India fans, especially with a patchwork attack at his disposal.
His batting – four fours off his first seven balls – sent a message to his own players and the bowlers. England went after every bowler, regardless of situation or reputation. To take on the swing of Bhuvneshwar Kumar with such abandon posed the usual question about why Buttler could not do it in Test cricket with the same ruthlessness.