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India‘s the much-awaited five-match T20I series against England will begin on January 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. This series comes at a critical time as both teams gear up for an intense contest, transitioning from Test cricket to the fast-paced T20 format. India defeated south africa in a T20I series away by a 3-1 margin last year.
India’s batting order for T20I series against England
Sanjay Bangarformer Indian batting coach, provided insights into India’s likely playing XI during a discussion on Star Sports’ Follow the blue ones. In particular, Yashasvi Jaiswalwho was part of the test squad for the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25he was named a top-order reserve batsman, missing out on the first XI.
Bangar’s preferred first order includes Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma i Sanju Samsonwhile middle order responsibilities correspond to Rinku Singh i Shivam Dubey. With a mix of experience and young talent, the series promises to test the depth of India’s T20 arsenal against a formidable English side.
“For me, the top four are similar, where Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav along with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. No. 5 and No. 6: Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube. For me, the reserve top-order batsman has to be Yashasvi Jaiswal. I wish he played all three formats, at least he was in contention for all three formats.” Bangar said.
Selection Dilemmas: Rishabh Pant or KL Rahul?
One of the key debates surrounding the Indian squad revolves around the batsman-support batsman position, with Rishabh pants i KL Rahul emerging as favorites. Bangar emphasized that the decision could depend on whether the team prioritizes a top-four hitter or the team’s long-term planning. Fresh from India’s victorious campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup, Pant brings a winning edge and adaptability to the middle order.
On the other hand, Rahul, despite not appearing in T20Is since the T20 World Cup 2022he remains a seasoned campaigner with a reliable track record. Bangar suggested that Pant might have the edge from a forward-looking perspective, but acknowledged Rahul’s versatility. He also speculated on the scenarios where Pant could replace an injured Samson or Jaiswal could come into the top order. Selection emphasizes the balancing act required to align current form with future potential.
“The back-up wicket, that’s a pitch, it’s very tough between a Rishabh Pant or a KL Rahul,” the former India batting coach added. If the need is to bat in the top four, yes Rishabh Pant, or KL Rahul. It’s a launch, but if you have to take a long-term view, then Rishabh could be the man. If Sanju Samson is not fit, you can end up (manage) playing Yashasvi at the top, drop one of the left-handers and bring Rishabh Pant to bat at No. 5. So Rishabh Pant,” added the 52-year-old.
READ also: IND vs ENG 2024: India’s 15-member squad for T20I series against England: Predicted
Bowling combinations and safety options
The bowling line-up for the series features a mix of pace and spin, reflecting India’s strategy for various conditions. Prasidh Krishnapraised for his ability to hit with the new ball and dominate the middle overs, he is expected to partner with a left-arm pacer. Arshdeep Singh. The spin department will be headed by Kuldeep Yadav with Axar Patel adding depth as an off-roader. Hardik PandyaIndia’s premier seam bowler, occupies a crucial spot at No.7.
Bangar identified Varun Chakravarthy as a safety spinner and Khaleel Ahmed as a reserve booster, ensuring that India have adequate bench strength for the series. This combination aims to counter England’s aggressive batting line-up while maintaining control at the death. The performance of the bowling unit will be crucial in determining the outcome of the series as both teams fight for early momentum ahead of the ODI series.
“No. 7 and 8 are Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel. Number 9 is Kuldeep Yadav. Number 10 and 11 are Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna. For me, Prasidh Krishna is a bowler who can bowl very penetratingly with the new ball and also in the mediums. The backup spinner will be Varun Chakaravarthy. The replacement will be Khaleel Ahmed.” Bangar concluded.
