India vs England 2nd T20I: Match Preview, Pitch Report, and Playing XI Predictions
The 2nd T20I between India and England in the ongoing 5-match series is goin to be played on Saturday, 25th January 2025, in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. After winning the 1st match with 7 wickets and having 43 balls in spare against England with overall good team work and contribution from the whole team along with a blistering performance from Abhishek Sharma, team India led by Suryakumar Yadav aims to extend their lead to 2-0.
Spotlight on Mohammed Shami
The absence of Mohammed Shami in the 1st match of the series sparked much discussion between the fans and experts, as the veteran pacer has not represented the national team for last 433 days. The selectors are looking at the fitness and form concerns for Shami as the Champions Trophy is on the horizon. He is expected to replace Ravi Bishnoi in the 2nd match, as India may likely to be on the field with two specialist pacers, alongside Arshdeep Singh.
Team India’s Likely Adjustments
While the Chepauk pitch is known for aiding spin, India may balance their XI by bringing in Washington Sundar, who can contribute both with the ball and the bat. Sundar might replace Nitish Kumar Reddy, to strengthen the spin attack for India. With the batting unit performed excellent in the last match, led by players like Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Verma, looking at that, changes in the top order are unlikely to be happen and will remain same.
England’s Predicted Moves
Despite their struggles in the first game, the England team is unlikely to make any changes in their batting lineup. However, considering Chennai’s spin-friendly conditions, Rehan Ahmed could replace Gus Atkinson to provide more variety in their bowling attack. Jos Buttler will continue to lead the side, with experienced sides like Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, and Mark Wood in key roles.
Pitch and Weather Report for 2nd T20I India vs England
The Chepauk surface is to be considered to offer assistance to spinners, with a slow track favoring turn for the spinners. However, it seems that fresh wickets during early tournaments like the IPL have also been batting-friendly, leaving the possibility of a high-scoring contest open. Weather conditions are expected to remain clear, with temperatures ranging between 23°C and 29°C, although humidity levels will be high.
Predicted Playing XIs
India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Suryakumar Yadav (C), Tilak Verma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy.
England: Phil Salt (WK), Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (C), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.
With both teams are looking to exploit Chennai’s unique conditions, the 2nd T20I Ind vs England promises to be an exciting contest as India aims to tighten their grip on the series and England tries to equal the lead with their win in 2nd match.
Stay tuned for more updates on the T20I series! Want to follow in the footsteps of your cricketing idols? Book a free counseling session on our website and kickstart your cricketing journey with Career in Cricket. Don’t wait—your dream career begins here!
