England focussed despite injuries, close matches

Andrew Strauss says his England squad will have no problem focussing on the World Cup quarterfinal, despite its tumultuous tournament.

England released Michael Yardy this week, saying he needed to return home for advice and treatment to overcome an illness he has been managing for a prolonged period of time. It meant England needed a fourth reinforcement, following injuries to other players.

Strauss shrugged off the turbulent run-up in which England tied a high-scoring group match against India and also successfully defended 171 runs against South Africa, but had two shocking defeats to Ireland and Bangladesh.

The England captain insists "now is the time to play good, smart, intelligent cricket."