Image Source: X
India is gearing up to face England in a high-stakes five-match T20I series starting January 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The subsequent matches will be held across Chennai, Rajkot, Pune, and Mumbai. With Suryakumar Yadav leading the team and Axar Patel as his deputy, the Men in Blue look determined to put on a strong show against the Jos Buttler-led side. Here’s a look at India’s potential strongest playing XI for the series.
Top Order: Samson and Abhishek to Open
The 30-year-old Sanju Samson has been entrusted with the role of opening the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma. Samson, India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter for this series, brings his explosive batting skills and dependable glovework. Punjab’s Abhishek Sharma, who has retained his spot in the squad, will be tasked with giving India fiery starts at the top.
Middle Order: Tilak Varma, SKY, and Hardik
Tilak Varma’s incredible form, which saw him smash two centuries in his last two T20Is against South Africa, solidifies his position at No. 3. Suryakumar Yadav (SKY), the captain and backbone of India’s batting, will follow at No. 4, bringing his unorthodox brilliance to the crease. Hardik Pandya, a proven match-winner, adds firepower and stability to the middle order at No. 5.
Lower Middle Order: Rinku Singh and Axar Patel
Rinku Singh, who has consistently impressed with his finishing abilities, will be India’s go-to player in crunch situations. Axar Patel, India’s premier spin-bowling all-rounder, provides depth to both the batting and bowling departments.
Bowling Attack: Varun, Bishnoi, Shami, and Arshdeep
The spin attack will be spearheaded by Varun Chakravarthy, fresh off a record-breaking series against South Africa. He’ll be partnered by Ravi Bishnoi, whose craftiness in T20 cricket has earned him a place in the XI.
The pace duo of Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Shami will lead the fast-bowling department. Arshdeep, with 95 wickets in 60 T20Is, is one of India’s most reliable bowlers. Shami’s experience and ability to swing the ball will be vital, especially with the new ball. Harshit Rana could get a chance if Shami is rested for workload management during the series.
Notable Omissions: Nitish Kumar Reddy
Despite his impressive performances against Bangladesh last year, Nitish Kumar Reddy might not find a place in the XI due to the wealth of options in the all-rounder category. Washington Sundar’s inclusion over Ravi Bishnoi could also be a tactical move, depending on the conditions.
India’s Strongest XI for the England Series
- Sanju Samson (WK)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav (C)
- Hardik Pandya
- Rinku Singh
- Axar Patel (VC)
- Arshdeep Singh
- Mohammed Shami
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Varun Chakravarthy
Conclusion
With a balanced mix of experience and young talent, India’s squad for the T20I series against England appears formidable. The combination of Samson’s explosive starts, Tilak’s consistency, and a versatile bowling attack led by Chakravarthy and Arshdeep could give India the edge. This series will not only test India’s mettle against a strong England side but also serve as a platform to fine-tune their T20I setup for future challenges.