India posted a competitive 189/7 in the first T20I at Chester-le-Street, thanks to half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and captain Shreyas Iyer, before rain washed out the contest.
Samson is under increasing pressure
Sanju Samson enters the second T20I under increased scrutiny. The wicketkeeper-batter managed just one run from seven balls in the opening match and was never comfortable at the crease.
With teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi waiting in the wings, Samson knows he can’t handle many setbacks. The 15-year-old has generated a lot of excitement, and another poor outing from the experienced opener could intensify calls for his inclusion.
Samson’s biggest challenge is consistency. While he produced memorable match-winning innings, they were often followed by a string of low scores. His difficulties against the moving ball were evident during the Ireland series, where the pacers repeatedly exposed his technique on seaming tracks.
Although the Indian team management is cautious about fast-tracking Sooryavanshi, the continued struggles from Samson may force a rethink in the upcoming matches.
Still looking for top gear
Tilak Varma is also under the spotlight for his approach to the middle.
One of India’s most gifted young batsmen, Tilak struggled to get up to speed once spinners were introduced or pacers started using slower deliveries. His inability to clear the ropes has often affected India’s finishing ability.
The numbers reflect that concern. In 12 T20Is this year, Tilak has hit just 12 sixes – an average per game – a modest return for a batter expected to provide late-innings firepower.
The bowling attack is unlikely to change
India are unlikely to make any changes to their bowling combination. The Old Trafford surface is expected to provide some help to the spinners, especially the wrist spinners, making the current attack suitable for the conditions.
Interestingly, the best bowling figures recorded in a T20I at the venue belong to India’s Kuldeep Yadav, even though the left-arm wrist-spinner is not part of the current squad.
England’s banking on explosive batting
England will once again rely on their aggressive batting line-up led by captain Harry Brook. Phil Salt and Tom Banton provide an explosive start at the top, while experienced players like Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell and Will Jacks add more depth to the batting order.
Will Sooryavanshi get his chance?
Despite the focus on the on-field battle, one question continues to dominate the discussions – will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi make his long-awaited debut?
India have so far resisted the temptation to drop the teenager in international cricket, but if Samson’s struggles continue, the clamor for the youngster’s inclusion is expected to grow.