India posted 189/7 in the first T20I at Chester-le-Street, thanks to half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and captain Shreyas Iyer, before the rain stopped.
Samson was under great pressure
Sanju Samson enters the second T20I under review. The wicketkeeper bowled just seven balls in the opening match and did not look good in the tournament.
With young hottie Vaibhav Sooryavanshi waiting in the wings, Samson knows he can’t afford too many failures. The 15-year-old has brought a lot of excitement, and another poor outing from the experienced opener could see him join the ranks.
Samson’s biggest problem has been consistency. Although he has produced memorable match-winning innings, he has often been followed by low scores. His difficulties in dealing with the moving ball were evident in the Irish game, where the forwards repeatedly revealed his path on errant routes.
While the Indian team management has been wary of running out Sooryavanshi, Samson’s struggles may force a rethink in the upcoming matches.
Tilak did not get the luxury of weapons
Tilak Varma has also been highlighted for his approach between the overs.
One of India’s most talented young batsmen, Tilak struggled to run the spinners once they were introduced or the pacers started using slow deliveries. His failure to clear the ropes has consistently hampered India’s finishing ability.
The numbers reflect that concern. In 12 T20Is this year, Tilak has hit just 12 wickets – an average of one per game – a slight return for a batter expected to provide some late fireworks.
A bowling attack can be inconsistent
India are unlikely to make any changes to their bowling combinations. The Old Trafford ground is expected to provide support to the spinners, especially the hand spinners, to make the attack as effective as it is.
Interestingly, the best bowler listed in T20Is at this venue is India’s Kuldeep Yadav, although the left-hander is not in the current squad.
England is selling explosive banks
England will also rely on their aggressive batting line-up led by captain Harry Brook. Phil Salt and Tom Banton provide explosive starts at the top, while experienced players such as Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell and Will Jacks add depth to the batting.
Will Sooryavanshi get his chance?
While the focus is on the on-stage battle, one question continues to be discussed – will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi make his long-awaited debut?
India have so far resisted the temptation to throw the youngster into international cricket, but if Samson continues, the clamor for inclusion is expected to grow.