Liam Livingstone has faced the challenges of being a lower-middle order batter in the T20 World Cup, with 61 runs from 33 balls across three innings at three different venues, maintaining a strike rate of 184.84. However, he expressed disappointment, particularly with his 33 off 17 balls against South Africa, where he felt he should have finished the game for England.
Livingstone highlighted the difficulties of his role, especially on slower pitches where the top order tries to bat deeper, leaving the No. 7 batter to either rescue the innings or accelerate rapidly. In a must-win game for England against the USA, Livingstone did not get to bat but contributed significantly with the ball, taking 1 for 24 in his four overs.
"It's a different experience," Livingstone mentioned, reflecting on his role. "My job is to be ready whenever I'm needed, whether it's batting or bowling. Even getting one crucial wicket can be more satisfying than an economical spell."
He acknowledged the mental challenge of adapting to a role where he doesn't always get to bat or bowl extensively. "It's something I've had to get used to mentally more than anything else. I was disappointed not to finish the game against South Africa because I felt that was my opportunity in this tournament," he said.
Livingstone explained the difficulty of staying mentally prepared for sporadic involvement in the game. "It's a more mental challenge for me, ensuring I'm ready whenever called upon," he added. He emphasised the competitive nature of elite cricketers and their desire to be involved in every aspect of the game. "As a kid, I always wanted to be involved, which is why I started bowling. Playing at seven and bowling occasionally can be tough because you want to contribute more."
He expressed satisfaction with his recent performances, saying, "I felt I struck the ball well against South Africa and bowled well today. I'm in a good place, ready to step up if needed in the upcoming games."
Livingstone acknowledged the pressure to perform when opportunities arise, highlighting that no player batting at Nos. 6 and 7 has aggregated 100 runs in this World Cup. "My role is to finish games with the bat and take crucial wickets. I'm always going to be critical of myself for not finishing the game against South Africa," he noted.
He also mentioned the difficulty of training for such a specialised role. "You have to find a way to simulate pressure situations in training. Having Kieron Pollard around has helped, as he has extensive experience in this role," Livingstone shared.
Physical challenges also come with this role, with Livingstone recalling a near knee injury in the IPL and a recent side strain in this tournament. "Touch wood, my knee and side are fine now. The main thing is I'm back enjoying my cricket, playing with a smile on my face," he concluded.