NewsPhotos Team India's Probable Playing XI For IND vs ENG 1st T20: Mohammed Shami Back, Eyes On Nitish Kumar Reddy

Team India's Probable Playing XI For IND vs ENG 1st T20: Mohammed Shami Back, Eyes On Nitish Kumar Reddy

As the much-awaited T20I series between India and England draws near, all eyes are on the team’s probable playing XI for the first match. With a mix of experience and fresh talent, India’s squad looks well-equipped to challenge England's formidable lineup. From established stars like Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya to rising talents such as Abhishek Sharma and Harshit Rana, this Indian team offers a dynamic blend of aggression, strategy, and depth. In this listicle, we delve into each player's role and potential impact for the opening T20I, shedding light on what they bring to the table in this crucial encounter.

Zee Media Bureau|

Updated:Jan 21, 2025, 09:11 AM IST

1. Suryakumar Yadav (C)

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As captain, Suryakumar Yadav’s innovative stroke play and experience make him a key player. His leadership will be vital in guiding the team and setting the tone with the bat.

2. Sanju Samson (wk)

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Sanju Samson brings aggressive batting at the top, paired with his wicketkeeping skills. His ability to attack from the start will be crucial for India in setting a competitive total.

3. Abhishek Sharma

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A left-handed opener with a knack for exploiting the powerplay, Abhishek Sharma’s ability to take on the bowlers early on adds a new dimension to India’s opening combination.

4. Tilak Varma

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Tilak Varma’s consistency in domestic cricket has earned him a spot at number three. His ability to play both pace and spin makes him a reliable choice in the crucial middle-order position.

5. Hardik Pandya (vc)

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As vice-captain, Hardik Pandya offers balance with his all-round abilities. His powerful batting in the middle overs and medium-pace bowling provide India with flexibility in both departments.

6. Rinku Singh

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Rinku Singh’s calm under pressure and finishing abilities make him an exciting prospect in the lower-middle order. His recent IPL form indicates he can deliver in high-stakes situations.

7. Nitish Kumar Reddy

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All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy’s versatility in both batting and bowling gives India tactical depth. His potential to contribute in various situations makes him a valuable asset to the squad.

8. Axar Patel (vc)

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Axar Patel’s all-round skills, particularly his left-arm spin and batting ability, offer balance to the team. His experience in pressure situations makes him a key player in the middle and lower order.

9. Harshit Rana

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Young fast bowler Harshit Rana’s raw pace and bounce could be a game-changer in the pace attack. His debut in the IND vs ENG series would add fresh energy to India’s bowling lineup.

10. Arshdeep Singh

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Arshdeep Singh will lead the pace attack in Shami’s absence. His swing bowling, especially with the new ball, and ability to bowl yorkers at the death make him a crucial player in India’s plans.

11. Mohammad Shami

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Though injured, Mohammad Shami’s presence in the squad is significant. If fit, he could provide much-needed experience and firepower to India’s pace attack, especially in the powerplay and death overs.