India’s XI for the 4th T20I: India will take on England in the fourth T20I at the MCA Stadium in Pune on Friday. Holding a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, India aims to secure an unassailable advantage. The spotlight remains on experienced pacer Mohammed Shami, who made his return in the third match. However, Shami struggled, conceding 25 runs in three overs at an economy of 8.33.
Arshdeep Singh, who was rested for the last game, is expected to return. However, he will not replace Shami. His ability to swing the ball in the powerplay could prove crucial as India looks for early breakthroughs.
India’s XI for the 4th T20I: Opening Combination Remains Unchanged
Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma will continue to open the innings. While Samson has yet to make a significant impact, Abhishek has been in stellar form. He has amassed 115 runs in three matches at a remarkable strike rate of 212.96, hitting 13 fours and eight sixes. His aggressive intent at the top has given India quick starts.
Middle Order: Stability and Firepower
Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav will slot in at No. 4 and No. 5, respectively. Tilak has been India’s second-highest run-scorer in the series, with 109 runs in three matches, including a match-winning 72*. His form will be crucial in anchoring the innings.
Suryakumar, the stand-in captain, will play a key role in accelerating the scoring rate. His ability to counter England’s spinners and fast bowlers makes him a dangerous asset.
Hardik Pandya Leads the All-Round Department
Hardik Pandya will continue at No. 6, playing a dual role as a finisher and a pace-bowling all-rounder. So far, he has contributed with both bat and ball, picking up five wickets in three matches at an economy of 8.10.
Axar Patel follows him in the lineup, providing depth in both batting and spin bowling. His left-arm spin could be crucial in slowing down England’s aggressive batters.
Final Selection Dilemma: Jurel or Sundar?
Ramandeep Singh, included as a replacement for the injured Nitish Kumar Reddy, retains his place. However, the management faces a tough call between Washington Sundar and Dhruv Jurel.
If India opts for a stronger lower-order batting option, Sundar could get the nod. However, if they prioritize a specialist wicketkeeper, Jurel might come in.
Bowlers: Shami, Arshdeep, and Chakaravarthy to Lead the Attack
Varun Chakaravarthy has been India’s standout bowler, picking up 10 wickets in the series so far. His mystery spin has troubled England’s batters, and he will be key in the middle overs.
Mohammed Shami, despite his expensive spell in the last match, keeps his place. His experience and ability to generate movement with the new ball add value to the team.
Arshdeep Singh’s return bolsters the pace attack. His ability to swing the ball upfront and deliver yorkers at the death provides India with a reliable option.
India’s Likely Playing XI
Openers:
- Sanju Samson
- Abhishek Sharma
Middle Order:
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya (all-rounder)
- Axar Patel (all-rounder)
- Ramandeep Singh (all-rounder)
- Washington Sundar (all-rounder) / Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper)
Bowlers:
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
- Varun Chakaravarthy
Key Factors to Watch Out For
- Can Samson Find His Form? – The wicketkeeper-batsman needs a solid knock to justify his place.
- Abhishek’s Explosive Batting – His high strike rate makes him India’s X-factor.
- Tilak and Suryakumar’s Impact – Their ability to control the middle overs will be crucial.
- Arshdeep’s Powerplay Overs – His early breakthroughs could set the tone for India.
- Varun Chakaravarthy’s Magic – Can he continue his wicket-taking spree?
With England looking to level the series, India must bring their A-game to clinch the series in Pune. The balance of experience and young talent makes this an exciting contest.
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