The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have announced their men’s squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England, scheduled to begin on January 22, 2025. A notable highlight of the squad is the return of the fast bowler Mohammed Shamiwho has been out of international cricket for 14 months due to injury and recovery from surgery.
Composition overview
The fifteen-member team led by Suryakumar Yadavrepresents a combination of experienced players and newcomers. Shami’s inclusion is expected to bolster India’s bowling attack as they prepare for this crucial series, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy approaching in February.
Key changes and player absences
Several key players from the Indian Test squad have been rested for this T20I series. Notable omissions include Rishabh Pantwho was regularly involved in setting up the T20I, i Jasprit Bumrahwhose injury status remains uncertain. The selectors decided to Dhruv Jurel as a second goalkeeper along the side Sanju Samson. Additionally, Nitish Kumar Reddy received his first call-up to the T20I side after previously missing out for the Test series against Australia. Management also included Harshit Rana in place of other fast bowlers like Avesh Khan and Yash Dayal.
India T20I squad for England series
Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Sanju Samson (ie), Abhishek Sharma, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Dhruv Jurel (ie), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya , Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar
The importance of the series
This series is crucial for India as it serves as a preparation before ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19. The team’s goal is to build momentum and strengthen its strategy with a combination of youth and experience.
Shami’s return is especially awaited, as he last played during the ODI World Cup final in November 2023. His experience and skill is expected to significantly strengthen the bowling line-up.
As fans eagerly await the start of the series, all eyes will be on how this revamped team will fare against a powerful English side known for their aggressive style of play.
