India vs England, 2nd T20I: Five players to watch out for

India crushed England in the first T20I of the five-match series, winning the game comprehensively by 7 wickets on Wednesday. On familiar conditions in Eden Gardens, India outmuscled England in all departments of the game. The bowlers set the tone early, restricting the visitors to a below-par total, while the Indian batters, led by a commanding performance from the top order, made light work of the chase. 

The win underlined India’s formidability at home and gave them a strong start to the series. On January 25, the second T20I between India and England is set to take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Both teams will be eager to make their mark, with India aiming to lead the series and England looking to bounce back and level the contest.

The pitch at Chepauk is known for its spin-friendly nature, which could play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the game. Fans can expect an exciting clash as the two sides battle it out under the lights.

Here’s a list of 5 players to watch out for in the 2nd T20I between India and England:

1: Abhishek Sharma

Young explosive opener Abhishek Sharma has been a crucial player for the new-era team in the T20 format. The all-rounder has been in impressive form with both bat and ball. His ability to accelerate the scoring in the middle overs and provide crucial breakthroughs makes him a key player for India in the second T20I.

Abhishek Sharma is known for his aggressive and attacking mindset on the field. His fearless stroke play, combined with an unwavering confidence, often puts bowlers on the back foot. This bold approach not only showcases his ability to take risks but also highlights his determination to dominate the game, making him a crucial asset to any team he represents.

From 13 T20I matches, Abhishek Sharma has scored a total of 335 runs with a strike rate of 183.06 and has taken 3 wickets.

2: Varun Chakravarthy

Legspinner Varun Chakravarthy is a key asset for the Indian team in t20 cricket. Known for his mystery spin, Varun can exploit the spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk. His variations will be crucial in restricting England's power-packed batting lineup.

His subtle variations in pace and his ability to bowl in pressure situations make him a key component of India’s bowling attack. Against a strong English batting lineup that often struggles against spin in subcontinental conditions, Varun will look to weave his magic and make an impact.

From 14 T20I matches, Varun Chakravarthy has taken a total of 22 wickets with an economy of 6.71.

3: Jos Buttler

England’s explosive opener Jos Buttler is a game-changer for the England Cricket Team. His ability to take on bowlers in the powerplay and anchor the innings will be critical for England to stage a comeback in the series.

If Buttler finds his rhythm, he can single-handedly turn the game in England’s favor, making him a key player to watch. From 130 T20I matches, Jos Buttler has scored a total of 3,457 runs with a strike rate of 147.16.

4: Arshdeep Singh

The left-arm pacer has been India’s go-to bowler in the death overs. With his pinpoint yorkers and ability to swing the ball early, he can trouble the English batters on a surface that might offer some assistance.

At Chepauk, where variations are key, Arshdeep’s control and clever use of slower balls could be pivotal in restricting England’s powerful batting lineup. His performance will be crucial in determining how well India contains England’s scoring.

From 61 matches, Arshdeep Singh has taken a total of 97 wickets with an economy of 8.24.

5: Jofra Archer

Jofra Archer remains one of England’s premier bowlers. Known for his express pace and ability to generate bounce even on slower wickets, Archer’s presence will be a boost to England’s bowling attack. His role in the powerplay, where he can rattle India’s top order, and in the death overs, where his pinpoint accuracy can stifle runs, makes him a player to watch. If Archer finds his rhythm, he could be the X-factor England needs to level the series.

He remains England's most lethal weapon with the ball. His pace and bounce can trouble Indian batters, particularly in the death overs. From 30 T20I matches, Jofra Archer has taken 37 wickets with an economy of 7.44.