Shami in, Reddy out: Abhishek Sharma’s spot in jeopardy for India’s likely XI vs England in 2nd T20I

India will aim to extend their lead in the five-match T20I series against England in the second game on Saturday in Chennai. After a dominant seven-wicket win in the first match, India is in a strong position. However, fitness concerns surround pacer Mohammed Shami, who was sidelined for the opener. His inclusion will depend on a last-minute fitness assessment.

Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy filled in admirably, with Arshdeep making early breakthroughs and Varun excelling in the middle overs during the first match.

The Chepauk pitch is expected to favor spinners, and India has a solid spin trio in Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi. With these three in the lineup, India is well-equipped to exploit the conditions. England’s spinners, Adil Rashid and Liam Livingstone, will need to deliver more after struggling in Kolkata. With the surface in Chepauk likely to be challenging, spinners could play a key role in the match’s outcome.

India’s opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson has been consistent. Abhishek particularly impressed with a blistering knock in the first T20I, striking at over 230. However, Abhishek is dealing with a twisted ankle, raising doubts about his availability for the second match.

If he’s unfit, captain Suryakumar Yadav might open, as there is no designated backup opener. Samson, with three centuries in his last six innings, has solidified his place as India’s top choice. Together, they offer a rare right-hand-left-hand combination at the top, keeping bowlers on their toes.

Suryakumar Yadav, struggling for form with only two fifties in his last 11 innings, will look to lead by example in Chennai. Although his recent performances haven’t hindered India’s success, he will be keen to make a significant contribution.

If Shami passes the fitness test, he could replace Nitish Kumar Reddy in the playing XI. England, meanwhile, may include young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed and have added Brydon Carse and Jamie Smith to their squad to strengthen their spin department.

With both teams adjusting to the conditions, an exciting contest is expected in Chepauk. India’s likely XI features:

Openers: Abhishek Sharma/Suryakumar Yadav (if Abhishek is unfit), Sanju Samson
Middle-order: Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh
All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel
Bowlers: Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy