"England’s “one-dimensional" batsmen are flat-track bullies who do not have an alternative plan if they are required to graft an innings in bowler-friendly surfaces”, former batsman Geoffrey Boycott has said.

The hosts have so far seen mixed fortunes this World Cup, posting 380+ totals, but surrendering on the not so aggressive batting friendly pitches.

Last week England faced a defeat against underdog appearing Sri Lanka, in Headingley, where the batsmen grappled to negotiate the things against pacer Malinga (4-43), and spinner Dhananjaya (3-32).

It was the second setback for hosts this tournament, the first one coming against Pakistan at Nottingham. “England is a one-dimensional batting unit and doesn’t seem to have a plan B or C,” Boycott wrote this in a column for The Telegraph. “If they do have alternative plans, they do not execute them very well.

“Twenty times out of 21, pitches in one-day cricket are conducive to big scores and England look invincible on those surfaces.

“But when they get a pitch that is not absolutely perfect when the ball just sticks a little in the surface and does not quite come on to the bat, they cannot handle it. Most of them are not capable of adapting or changing their way of batting.”

Boycott lauded Joe Root and said, he is capable of playing well in all formats of the game. But, the 78-year old was witheringly is his criticism for opener James Vince.

“Joe Root is the exception because his run-scoring in all cricket is based on an excellent technique,” Boycott added.

“I am sorry for all those people who think James Vince is an international batsman. Vince plays pretty little cameos but keeps getting himself out. He flatters and then deceives us without ever delivering a big score. When is he going to learn? It appears never.”

England who is fourth in standings will next face mighty Australia at Lord’s on Tuesday.

(With Inputs from The Telegraph)