India vs. England: 2nd T20I – Key Insights and Fantasy Picks
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM IST
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- Broadcast: Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar
Match Preview
The second T20I of the five-match series between India and England promises to be an exciting encounter. India, riding high on their dominant win in the first game at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, will look to extend their lead. On the other hand, England, battling challenges with spin and consistency, will strive to bounce back and keep the series alive.
India’s Performance in the 1st T20I
India’s commanding victory in the first T20I showcased a masterclass in spin bowling and aggressive batting. Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel spun a web around the English batters, limiting them to a modest 132/7, leaving little room for recovery.
Abhishek Sharma stole the show with a blistering 79 off just 34 deliveries, supported by a steady opening stand with Sanju Samson. The hosts chased the target with ease, completing the win in just 14.2 overs. They are likely to stick to the same lineup, though Mohammed Shami’s availability might prompt a change.
England’s Challenges and Adjustments
England’s batting lineup faltered against spin in the opening game, with Jos Buttler’s lone effort of 68 standing out amidst the collapse. Their inability to build partnerships and counter India’s spinners hurt their chances. England’s bowling also lacked penetration, particularly in the powerplay, where India dominated.
In response, England has made adjustments to their squad. Brydon Carse replaces Gus Atkinson, who struggled in the first game, while Jamie Smith is expected to debut in place of the unwell Jacob Bethell. England’s focus will be on improving their approach to spin and strengthening their middle order.
Pitch and Weather Report
The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai is renowned for its spin-friendly surface, offering slow turn and variable bounce that spinners can exploit to trouble batters. For teams with strong spin attacks, this provides a crucial advantage, making it a venue where bowlers can dominate if batters fail to adapt quickly. However, batters who apply themselves can score runs once settled. Dew in the evening may make bowling tougher in the second innings, encouraging captains to opt for chasing after winning the toss.
Key Factors to Watch:
- Spin Threat: The surface’s slow nature will make spin bowling a decisive factor.
- Dew Factor: Dew could ease batting conditions under lights, favoring the chasing team.
Key Players to Watch
India
- Abhishek Sharma: The opener, fresh off a match-winning knock, will be crucial at the top of the order.
- Hardik Pandya: The captain’s all-round abilities make him a key figure in both batting and bowling departments.
- Varun Chakravarthy: His deceptive spin will pose significant challenges to England’s batters.
England
- Jos Buttler: The skipper’s ability to anchor and accelerate will be vital for England’s batting revival.
- Adil Rashid: As England’s lead spinner, Rashid’s role on this track will be pivotal.
- Harry Brook: A promising middle-order batter capable of turning the tide with impactful innings.
Fantasy Team Recommendations
Wicketkeepers:
- Jos Buttler (VC): England’s most consistent batter and a reliable choice for vice-captain.
- Sanju samson: A potential opener, he adds points in keeping.
Batters:
- Abhishek Sharma (C): In red-hot form, he’s the top pick for captaincy.
- Surya kumar Yadav: Dependable at the top with a strong strike rate.
- phil salt: England’s experienced batter with the ability to anchor innings.
All-Rounders:
- Hardik Pandya: A game-changer with both bat and ball.
- Liam livingston: Effective with spin and capable of delivering quick runs down the order.
Bowlers:
- Varun Chakravarthy: A match-winner on spin-friendly surfaces.
- Adil Rashid: Experienced and effective, especially in subcontinental conditions.
- Mark Wood: His pace could be a crucial weapon against India’s top order.
- Axar Patel: Handy in the middle overs with his tight bowling and batting prowess.
Fantasy Team XI (With Captain and Vice-Captain)
- Jos Buttler (VC)
- Abhishek Sharma (C)
- Sanju Samson
- Phil salt
- Hardik Pandya
- Surya Kumar Yadav
- Varun Chakravarthy
- Adil Rashid
- Mark Wood
- Axar Patel
- Liam Livingston
Prediction
India is looking strong heading into the second T20I, especially with their great form and home advantage. But England could make it interesting if their batters handle the spin better. If Jos Buttler gets good support from his teammates, England might still have a shot at leveling the series.
For fantasy picks, focusing on players who can handle spin well is key—think of India’s middle-order batters or bowlers who control the game. Hardik Pandya is a solid choice, since he can contribute both with the bat and ball.
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