India’s resounding win in the first T20I set a high benchmark for the series, with Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 79 off 34 balls leading the charge. However, the absence of Mohammed Shami in the playing XI raised some eyebrows, especially given his experience and ability to deliver in crunch moments. The decision to rely on a spin-heavy attack paid off in Kolkata, and it’s likely that India will stick to a similar strategy on the spin-friendly Chepauk track.
Key Highlights and Analysis
Top Order Expectations
Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson form a dynamic opening pair, blending aggression with finesse. Both players will aim to capitalize on the powerplay once again. Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma provide stability and firepower to the middle order, making India’s batting lineup well-rounded.
All-Rounder Depth
With Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Nitish Kumar Reddy in the squad, India boasts a strong core of all-rounders capable of excelling in both batting and bowling. This balance will be critical on a surface where partnerships and adaptability often decide the outcome.
Bowling Strategy
Varun Chakravarthy is set to lead India’s bowling attack, with the Chennai surface amplifying his mystery spin. His figures of 3/23 in the first T20I were game-changing. The team management might face a choice between Ravi Bishnoi and Mohammed Shami, depending on the pitch conditions. While Bishnoi provides an attacking leg-spin option, Shami’s experience could prove invaluable in high-pressure situations.
England’s Challenges
England’s batting lineup, led by Jos Buttler, will aim to bounce back after a below-par performance in the first match. With key players like Jofra Archer and Mark Wood in their bowling arsenal, they have the resources to challenge India’s strong lineup.
India’s Likely XI for the 2nd T20I
- Abhishek Sharma
- Sanju Samson (wk)
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav (c)
- Hardik Pandya
- Rinku Singh
- Axar Patel
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Arshdeep Singh
- Ravi Bishnoi/Mohammed Shami
- Varun Chakravarthy
India’s ability to adapt to the conditions at Chepauk and maintain their momentum will be key to securing another dominant victory. With Abhishek Sharma in sublime form and Chakravarthy spearheading the bowling attack, the hosts are well-positioned to extend their lead in the series.
