Brief

Will Jacks frames England’s next tri‑series games as a mini World Cup

The England all‑rounder sees the upcoming fixtures as crucial preparation for the 2027 World Cup in southern Africa.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 23 Oct 2026 22:54:48 GMT

England’s all‑rounder Will Jacks told the Press Association that the team’s next two tri‑series matches in Lahore should be treated as a “mini World Cup” after recent defeats to Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

What happened

England were bowled out for 429/4 against Sri Lanka, with Harry Brook scoring a rapid 202. Sri Lanka chased the target, winning by two wickets with Janith Liyanage hitting the decisive six on the penultimate ball. The loss leaves England needing victories over Pakistan on Sunday and Sri Lanka on Thursday to keep a place in the final on Sunday.

What the reports add

The Independent notes that Jacks compared the situation to England’s 2019 World Cup campaign, where the side recovered from early losses to win the tournament. He also highlighted the relevance of the upcoming 2027 World Cup in southern Africa, saying each match is a “stepping stone” toward that event.

What was said

Jacks said, “It’s my first tri‑series and it replicates World Cup styles and pressures. You can’t replicate that in training or a bilateral series… Every game that we play is a stepping stone towards South Africa in 12 months’ time.” The quote is attributed to the Press Association by the Independent.

How it came about

England entered the series after an 87‑run loss to Pakistan and a dramatic defeat to Sri Lanka, where Brook’s double‑century was eclipsed by the opposition’s chase. Earlier this season, England’s white‑ball side enjoyed a strong run, winning 11 matches and losing two, as reported in Felo’s coverage of the team’s ODI successes. Jacks’ comments link those recent setbacks to the broader preparation for the 2027 World Cup, echoing themes from Felo’s earlier analysis of England’s World Cup ambitions.

Key facts

England need to beat Pakistan on Sunday and Sri Lanka on Thursday to stay in the tri‑series final (independent.co.uk)
Harry Brook scored 202 runs in England’s 429/4 total against Sri Lanka (independent.co.uk)
Will Jacks likened the upcoming matches to a mini World Cup, citing the 2019 experience (independent.co.uk)
Sri Lanka won the chase with a six from Janith Liyanage on the penultimate ball (independent.co.uk)
Jacks said each game is a stepping stone toward the 2027 World Cup in southern Africa (independent.co.uk)