India will aim to extend their lead in the five-match T20I series against England in the second game, scheduled for Saturday in Chennai. After a commanding seven-wicket victory in the first T20I, Team India will look to double their advantage, though fitness concerns over Mohammed Shami and Abhishek Sharma have raised questions about the final XI.
Shami’s Potential Inclusion
Mohammed Shami, who was initially expected to play in the first T20I, was sidelined for fitness assessments. If declared fit after a last-minute check, Shami could replace Nitish Kumar Reddy in the XI. The Indian bowling attack performed admirably in Kolkata without Shami, with Arshdeep Singh impressing with the new ball and Varun Chakaravarthy taking control in the middle overs.
Fitness Woes for Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma, who impressed with a blistering knock in the first match, has been a revelation at the top of the order alongside Sanju Samson. However, a potential ankle injury from a recent training session has raised doubts about his availability. If Abhishek is unavailable, Suryakumar Yadav could step in as an opener, given that the team does not have a designated backup for the position.
Abhishek and Samson have formed a solid opening partnership, providing consistent starts. Samson has been in excellent form with three centuries in his last six innings, making them India’s first-choice openers. The right-hand-left-hand combination at the top has proven effective in keeping opposition bowlers on their toes.
Key Players for India
- Suryakumar Yadav: Despite struggling for form with only two fifties in his last 11 innings, Suryakumar will be key for India, especially in the middle order. He will be eager to lead from the front and make a significant impact on the Chennai pitch.
- Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel: Both all-rounders will be critical in the middle overs, with Axar playing a crucial role with the ball in conditions expected to favor spinners.
- Spin Trio: Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, and Axar Patel form India’s spin department, with the Chepauk pitch likely to assist spinners.
India’s Likely XI
- Openers: Abhishek Sharma/Suryakumar Yadav (if Abhishek is unfit), Sanju Samson
- Middle-order: Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh
- All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel
- Bowlers: Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy
If Shami remains unfit, Nitish Kumar Reddy may retain his place in the XI.
England’s Adjustments
England could bolster their spin department by including young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed after struggling with spin in Kolkata. They have also added Brydon Carse and Jamie Smith to their squad.
