England has made a single change to their playing XI for the second T20I against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on Saturday. Pacer Brydon Carse has replaced Gus Atkinson, who had a tough outing in the first game, conceding 38 runs in just two overs. Additionally, wicketkeeper Jamie Smith has been added to the squad as the 12th player, as confirmed by England Cricket on X.
First T20I Recap
India claimed a resounding seven-wicket victory in the opening match of the series in Kolkata. A stellar knock by opener Abhishek Sharma, who scored 79 runs off 34 balls, sealed the game for the hosts with 43 balls to spare. England struggled with the ball, particularly Gus Atkinson, whose expensive spell prompted the change in the lineup.
Captains’ Comments
Jos Buttler (England Captain)
Reflecting on the loss, Buttler highlighted the conditions and the need to adapt better in future games:
“The wicket had a bit of spice early on, which caught us off guard, but once you got through that tricky phase, it turned into a great pitch on a fast-scoring ground. We want to be aggressive and watchable, but we also need to assess conditions venue to venue.”
Buttler also praised his bowlers, specifically mentioning Jofra Archer and Mark Wood:
“Jof looked good, a superstar, very threatening. Mark Wood bowled fast and was exciting to watch.”
Buttler reaffirmed his confidence in coach Brendon McCullum and their aggressive playing philosophy:
“I’m a big McCullum fan, always have been. Enjoying working with him and the environment he creates.”
Suryakumar Yadav (India Captain)
Suryakumar credited the team’s energy and execution after winning the toss for their dominant performance:
“The energy after we won the toss set the benchmark. Bowlers executed plans brilliantly, and the batting was the icing on the cake.”
He emphasized India’s strategy to give players more freedom:
“There’s a lot of freedom given. We want to play a bit differently, and Hardik’s responsibility with the new ball gives us the cushion to play an extra spinner.”
Fielding remains a focus area for the Indian side, with Suryakumar adding:
“The fielding is one area we’ve been working really hard on. Taking those half chances can make a difference.”
England Playing XI for the Second T20I
- Ben Duckett
- Phil Salt (WK)
- Jos Buttler (C)
- Harry Brook
- Liam Livingstone
- Jacob Bethell
- Jamie Overton
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
- Mark Wood
With India leading the five-match series 1-0, England will look to bounce back and level the series in the second T20I. The match promises to be another thrilling encounter between the two sides.
