IND vs ENG 2025: Top 3 Players to watch out for in upcoming T20I series

India are all set to host England in a five-match T20I series, starting with the first encounter on Wednesday, January 22, at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

The All India Men’s Senior Selection Committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has named a strong squad consisting of both young and experienced professionals. The squad hasn’t changed much from the one that had toured South Africa in November 2024. However, some notable exclusions from that squad are Jitesh Sharma, Avesh Khan, Shivam Dube, and Yash Dayal.

Meanwhile, the happy news is the return of pacer Mohammed Shami, who is set to play his first game for India after a gap of 14 months. The side also sees the inclusion of young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who grabbed the eyeballs with his heroics in the Test tour of Australia. Suryakumar Yadav will be excited to lead the side after becoming India’s full-time T20I captain in Sri Lanka in July 2024.

Here are 3 players who could make a big impact during the T20I series:

3. Sanju Samson

Sanju Samson ended 2024 on a high note in the shortest format of the game. The Kerala-born wicketkeeper-batter scored three brilliant T20I centuries, including 111 off 47 balls against Bangladesh, and 107 and 109* against South Africa, respectively. These performances made him the first Indian to score consecutive T20I hundreds and the only batter with three T20I tons in a calendar year.

However, his exclusion from the 2025 Champions Trophy squad became a talking point. Many media reports claimed Samson’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy and a missed preparatory camp upset the BCCI selectors, with Kerala Cricket Association president Jayesh George criticizing his actions. However, after coming back from South Africa, Samson featured in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring 136 runs in five matches. Looking at his previous form, the right-hander will be a player to watch out for in the coming series.

2. Hardik Pandya:

India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be a crucial player for the Men in Blue in the upcoming series. In India’s 3-1 T20I series win over South Africa, Pandya reclaimed the ICC T20I all-rounder No. 1 ranking with consistent performances, ending the series with 59 runs and two wickets.

Representing Baroda, he delivered impactful displays in domestic tournaments, especially in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, including scores of 47, 69, 41* and 74*. Meanwhile, Axar Patel has replaced him as T20I vice-captain. Hardik’s next focus will be the white ball series against England leading up to the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The 31-year-old will be hoping to continue his fine form in this series and carry the same for the marquee event as well.

Also Check: IND vs ENG Schedule 2025 | Fixtures, Time Table, Timings & Venues

1. Mohammed Shami:

After a 14-month gap, Mohammed Shami is set to don the Indian jersey again as he will lead the pace attack in the upcoming T20Is against England. The 2023 ODI World Cup’s highest wicket-taker, Shami, has been crucial for India, and his return is part of India’s plan to fine-tune their squad ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai this February.

Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar mentioned Shami’s inclusion as crucial for preparing him to international cricket. Before this series, the pacer consistently played domestic cricket for Bengal and was looking in good shape. Shami will most likely bowl in the middle overs, as the new ball responsibility will be given to Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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