Jamie Overton is content to let others take the spotlight after playing another decisive role in England’s run to the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
While Harry Brook’s 50 ball hundred grabbed the headlines in the two wicket Super 8 win over Pakistan national cricket team, Overton once again delivered key breakthroughs. He removed Babar Azam and trapped Sahibzada Farhan lbw just as the opener threatened to accelerate, taking his tally to nine wickets in the tournament.
The 6ft 5in seamer has been used in the powerplay and at the death across five appearances, responding well after missing out to Luke Wood in England’s opening fixture.
Asked whether he felt under appreciated, Overton said: “People can say what they want. I’m just trying to do my job for England and that’s all that matters, really.”
His economy rate of 6.64 is among the best in the competition, with only Usman Tariq taking more wickets at a lower rate.
Overton, who can exceed 90mph, has worked closely with England fast bowling coach Tim Southee to adjust his lengths in Asian conditions.
“I’ve been a bit short at times in the past and it just sits up a little bit, so it’s just trying to bowl a little bit fuller,” the 31-year-old all-rounder said.
“I’m just trying to find a method that works for me and it seems to be going quite well at the moment so I’m trying to stick with it.”
After a career disrupted by injuries, including multiple stress fractures in his back, Overton stepped away from red ball cricket last summer and ruled himself out of the Ashes.
“The body feels in a good spot, I’m not having to worry about bowling 20 to 25 overs in an innings and stuff like that,” Overton said.
“I feel like I can manage myself a bit easier and work on skills, like my lengths and slower balls. It’s helping me develop my white-ball cricket, that’s for sure.”
Encouraged by head coach Brendon McCullum, Overton has also contributed in the field, though he admits his lower order hitting has yet to fire.
“I love working with Baz – he wants me to bowl fast and then go out and smack it,” Overton said. “Smacking it is not going well at the moment but it will come and I’m just happy I’m bowling well.”
England travel to Colombo to face New Zealand national cricket team in their final Super 8 match, with a semi-final place already secured.
“We want to finish off with another win and then move ahead,” Overton added.