England’s dream of defending their T20 World Cup crown took a significant dent as they started the tournament in terrible shape. From a rain-washed draw against Scotland, Eoin Morgan’s side was soundly thumped by archrivals Australia, 36 runs adrift, on Saturday night.

The reigning champions languish at the foot of Group B with a solitary point—quite the opposite of Australia’s dominant position at the summit with four. Even minnows Scotland (3 points) and Namibia (2 points) find themselves above England in the table. This puts England in a precarious position, as they need to win their remaining matches to advance to the next stage.

However, the task in front of England was humongous after the Aussies scored 202. Openers Jos Buttler (42) and Phil Salt (37) gave a glimmer of hope for the English, putting on a brisk 73-run partnership before the middle order collapsed. Moeen Ali (25), Harry Brook (20), and a sedate Liam Livingstone (15) could not capitalize, leaving England well behind the target. Australian bowling honours went to Pat Cummins and Adam Zampa, who shared spoils with two wickets each. Jos Buttler’s aggressive batting and Phil Salt’s steady start were the highlights of England’s innings.

Australia gave the perfect foundation for a big total with a solid batting display. Travis Head (34) and David Warner (39) then put on a crucial 70-run stand. At the same time, skipper Mitchell Marsh (35), Glenn Maxwell (28), and Marcus Stoinis (30) ensured that every batsman contributed, with the most significant blow inflicted by the Marsh-Maxwell 65-run partnership.

The Marsh-Maxwell partnership of 65 runs, then Chris Jordan, was the only silver lining in England’s bowling attack, picking two wickets, but to no avail.

England faces a group-stage exit, with must-win games against the remaining opponents. Jos Buttler’s men must pull off a dramatic turnaround if they want to extend their World Cup reign.