The much-awaited five-match T20I series between India and England is scheduled to begin on Wednesday (January 22) evening at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Gautam Gambhir, who has enjoyed remarkable success as India’s coach in the shortest format, will lead the team into the series opener. Under his guidance, India is yet to lose a T20I series, and Suryakumar Yadav’s side will look to set the pace against Jos Buttler’s England team.

IND Vs ENG: Opening Pair – Abhishek Sharma & Sanju Samson

It is expected that Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma will be the opening pair for 1st T20I against England. Samson has been in stellar form and hit three centuries in the last five matches. Abhishek Sharma still hasn’t made any significant impact but is likely to get retained due to lack of other alternative options.

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IND vs ENG: Tilak Varma At No.3

Tilak Varma is expected to keep his place at No.3 secure considering his fine form and back-to-back centuries in the last T20I series against South Africa.

IND Vs ENG: Strong Middle Order

The middle order can consist of Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel. All of them bring solid support and with Suryakumar Yadav’s 360 show and strong hitting capabilities, the batting lineup becomes formidable.

IND Vs ENG: Washington Sundar Likely To Replace Rinku Singh

Gautam Gambhir is one who has traditionally liked his all-rounders throughout the Test series. However, this trend is expected to carry on in T20Is as well where Washington Sundar looks to get the nod ahead of Rinku Singh. While Rinku will be a good backing asset, his best role may come in lower down the order. A balanced team should see Sundar find a slot at No. 7 or 8.

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IND Vs ENG: India’s Predicted Playing XI

Suryakumar Yadav (C), Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel (VC), Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Arshdeep Singh