Second T20I: Carse Takes Atkinson's Spot in England's Lineup; Smith Joins Squad

Click to start listening
Second T20I: Carse Takes Atkinson's Spot in England's Lineup; Smith Joins Squad

Synopsis

Chennai, Jan 24 (NationPress) England's Brydon Carse replaces Gus Atkinson for the second T20I against India at MA Chidambaram Stadium, while Jamie Smith is added to the squad. After a heavy loss in the first match, England is looking to bounce back under captain Jos Buttler's leadership.

Key Takeaways

  • Brydon Carse replaces Gus Atkinson in England's XI.
  • Jamie Smith joins the squad.
  • England needs to assess conditions for the upcoming matches.
  • India leads the series 1-0 after a convincing win.
  • Both teams are focusing on strategy and execution.

Chennai, Jan 24 (NationPress) Pacer Brydon Carse will take the place of Gus Atkinson in England's playing XI for the second T20I against India at MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Saturday.

The tourists made just one modification to their lineup following a disheartening seven-wicket defeat in the series opener held in Kolkata on Wednesday. Wicket-keeper Jamie Smith has also been incorporated into the 12-player squad, as announced by England Cricket on X.

During the first T20I, Atkinson had a disappointing performance, giving away a staggering 38 runs in his two overs. He was unable to complete his full quota of four overs as Abhishek Sharma's explosive 34-ball 79 secured victory for India with 43 balls remaining.

Following the loss, England captain Jos Buttler mentioned that they will evaluate conditions for the upcoming matches in the series.

"There was a little in the wicket early on, didn't expect that, but if you came through that phase, it was a good pitch and a fast-scoring ground. Some really good players in there, we'll be better for the run-out. Jof looked good, superstar, looked threatening, Mark Wood bowled fast, exciting. We want to be aggressive and watchable, but venue to venue got to assess conditions. Enjoyment of the game is always there, I'm enjoying the environment. I'm a big McCullum fan, always have been. Enjoying working with him," Buttler stated during the post-match discussion.

In contrast, India captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed that the enthusiasm displayed by his teammates after winning the toss set a high standard for them.

"The energy after we won the toss set the benchmark. Bowlers had plans, executed, and the way we batted was icing on the cake. We did the same in South Africa, Hardik had the responsibility to bowl the new ball, allowing for the extra spinner. Varun's preparations are on point, and Arshdeep is taking on additional responsibility. There's a lot of freedom given, we want to play a bit differently. The fielding is one area we've been focusing on diligently. Let's seize those half chances and make an impact," Suryakumar commented after taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series.

England's XI for the second T20I: Ben Duckett, Phil Salt (WK), Jos Buttler (C), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.