Kolkata, February 13 Explosive England opener Phil Salt has urged his side to bat with "confidence and assert their dominance" in the must-win Group C clash against Scotland here on Saturday.
The two-time former champions are facing another early exit after losing to the West Indies by 30 runs at Wankhede, where captain Harry Brook rued that they were too cautious and didn't play their natural brand of cricket in a chase of 197.
"The differences between playing in bilateral series and tournament play are significant, but the main takeaway from that game was that we possibly batted a bit too tentatively," Salt said on the eve of the match.
"But there are opportunities to go out and play with personality and express ourselves. Because when we do that, the opposition can't live with us, and we know that.
"But it's about bringing that determination to the field and making the right decisions, taking the positive option with confidence and asserting ourselves in the game. I think that's what we need to do. And if we want to go deep into this World Cup, we're going to have to do exactly that."
England will have to win their remaining two matches against Scotland and Italy to qualify for the Super Eights.
"Obviously, we're disappointed to have lost to the West Indies, but they're a good side, and we give them credit. They played well. And I think it's important to maintain a positive attitude, as the competition is still ahead of us.
"Obviously, we have two big games coming up. But I'm confident that we can bring out the best versions of ourselves in both of those games."
Asked about their rivalry, Salt said: "There's always a bit of that. Definitely from their side as well.
"Knowing a few of their players, this is a special game for them. An opportunity to upset England is, I think, the dream of most Scots. So there is a bit of that.
"When you're under pressure, you need to come out and bring out your best. Obviously, we did that in 2022, and we'll look to do it again here. We need to focus on the process and bring out the best version of ourselves."
Salt also praised Kolkata Knight Riders coach Gautam Gambhir for helping him to develop.
"When I was here, GG was very focused on me, and he wanted me to be smart," Salt said.
"It was a big part of my improvement – where were my high-percentage shots? Where were they bowling? Where were they missing?"
He said that the key at Eden Gardens is to dominate the powerplay.
"Usually, it's a slightly slower pitch, and it can be a bit bouncy," Salt said.
"I think it's a new ball wicket, and the powerplay is crucial.
"If you win the powerplay here, you're in a great position."
Wheal: "We want to make Scotland proud"
