IND vs ENG Live Updates: Hardik Pandya Strikes Early, India Eyes Series Victory
Rajkot, January 28, 2025: The third T20I between India and England has begun at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, with the Indian team looking to seal the five-match series. After winning the toss, India elected to bowl first, and Hardik Pandya delivered an early breakthrough, dismissing England’s opener Phil Salt for just 5 runs.
India’s Playing XI: Shami Returns After Over a Year
India made a single change to their playing XI, bringing in seasoned pacer Mohammed Shami in place of Arshdeep Singh, who was rested. This marks Shami’s return to international cricket after more than a year, following an ankle injury that sidelined him since the 2023 ODI World Cup Final.
India’s Playing XI:
- Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
- Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Tilak Varma
- Hardik Pandya
- Washington Sundar
- Axar Patel
- Mohammed Shami
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Varun Chakravarthy
- Dhruv Jurel
England’s Do-or-Die Match
Led by Jos Buttler, England faces a must-win situation, trailing 2-0 in the series. Despite two close contests, England has retained their playing XI, hoping to turn their fortunes around in this crucial game.
England’s Playing XI:
- Jos Buttler (Captain)
- Ben Duckett
- Phil Salt
- Harry Brook
- Liam Livingstone
- Jamie Smith
- Jamie Overton
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Mark Wood
- Adil Rashid
Hardik Pandya Draws First Blood
In the second over, Hardik Pandya struck with a key wicket, dismissing Phil Salt for 5 runs. Salt, looking to drive through covers, handed a simple catch to Abhishek Sharma. This dismissal continues Salt’s struggle in the series, as he departs with single-digit scores in three consecutive matches.
Shami Leads the Attack on Comeback
In his comeback match, Mohammed Shami opened India’s bowling attack with precision, conceding just five runs in his first over. The experienced pacer showcased his skill, keeping the English openers in check and setting the tone for India’s defense.
India’s Momentum and Key Players
India, under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, has shown remarkable form in the series, clinching the first two matches with impressive performances. Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 72 in Chennai was a standout, and India will look to him for another impactful contribution.
While Suryakumar’s form remains a concern—scoring 0 and 12 in the first two matches—his ability to lead fearlessly and make tactical decisions has been commendable. India’s bowling, led by Ravi Bishnoi and Varun Chakravarthy, has been instrumental in the team’s success so far.
What’s at Stake for England?
For England, this match is a fight for survival. With Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, and Liam Livingstone forming a formidable batting order, the visitors will need their star players to deliver under pressure. England’s pace attack, spearheaded by Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, will also play a crucial role in turning the tide.
Key Moments So Far
- India Wins Toss: Opts to bowl first, banking on their bowling depth.
- Shami’s Return: Marks his comeback with disciplined bowling in the opening over.
- Hardik Strikes Early: Removes Salt in the second over, giving India an early edge.
What to Watch For
As the match progresses, the focus will be on:
- India’s Bowling Attack: Can Shami, Bishnoi, and Chakravarthy restrict England’s power-hitters?
- Suryakumar Yadav’s Batting Form: Will he find the big innings the team needs?
- England’s Resilience: Can Buttler’s side keep the series alive?
IND vs ENG Live Updates: Hardik Pandya Strikes Early, India Eyes Series Victory
