Southampton: The first match of the 3-match T20 series between India and England will be played in Southampton tonight at 10.30 pm.
Indian team captain Rohit Sharma, who has recovered from corona infection, will play in today’s match. Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant will join the team for the 2nd match. With Rohit Sharma back in the team, Ruduraj Gaekwat is doubtful.
Deepak Hooda, who scored a century against Ireland, is likely to come out with a brilliant performance. Suryakumar Yadav, who has returned from injury, failed to attract attention in the Ireland series. Thus, he may tend to perform better.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is in top form when it comes to bowling. He may be joined by Umran Malik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Yuvendra Chahal and Ravi Bishnoi. The England T20 series is seen as the starting point for selecting the best Indian team for the T20 World Cup to be held in Australia later this year.
The England team is led by Jos Buttler. Despite the rest of Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow, England are strong. Jos Buttler and Liam Livingston, who have been active in the IPL series, may challenge the Indian bowlers.