1st T20I: Shami Left Out as India Chooses to Bowl First Against England
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, veteran fast-bowler Mohammed Shami will not return for India as they bowl first against England in the T20I series opener at Eden Gardens. Captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed confidence in the team's selection and preparations for an exciting contest.
Key Takeaways
- Mohammed Shami misses his return.
- India opts to bowl first after winning the toss.
- Strong pace attack led by Hardik Pandya.
- Exciting competition expected between both teams.
- Strategic selections made by both captains.
Kolkata, Jan 22 (NationPress) Veteran fast-bowler Mohammed Shami will not be making his international return today, as India won the toss and chose to bowl first against England in the T20I series opener at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.
Shami was widely anticipated to feature in his comeback match, but the wait continues as India has selected a pace attack comprising Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Arshdeep Singh, while the spin department will be managed by Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, and Varun Chakaravarthy.
"The pitch appears sticky and dew conditions may intensify later. It promises to be an exciting contest between both teams. The selection process has been challenging, yet we are focusing on our strengths. The players have been exceptional, and our preparations are solid. We are eager for this series, anticipating a thrilling competition between both sides," stated India captain Suryakumar Yadav.
On the England side, Brydon Carse, Jamie Smith, Saqib Mahmood, and Rehan Ahmed were not included in the squad for the match in Kolkata. "The pitch looks promising, and I am confident it will lead to an exciting match. Dew is expected to be a factor. Playing against India in these conditions is a true honor," remarked captain Jos Buttler.
Playing XIs
India: Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, and Varun Chakaravarthy.
England: Ben Duckett, Philip Salt (wk), Jos Buttler (c), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, and Mark Wood
