Published By: Sayan Guha

IND vs. ENG T20I: A Look at India's Best Opening Stands Against England in T20Is

As the stage is set for a five-match T20I series, let’s revisit some unforgettable opening partnerships

The first T20I between India and England is just around the corner, and Kolkata will host the series opener. The Indian squad, led by Suryakumar Yadav, appears to be on track to retain its domination in the format. India is full of confidence after winning a series over Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and South Africa last year.

Sanju Samson's growth as an opener and the entrance of newcomers like Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy have added to India's unpredictable line-up. England must deal with India's home conditions despite their expertise and a resurgent Mohammed Shami.

With five T20I matches ahead of us, let's take a look back at four of India's most memorable opening stands against England.

Sehwag and Gambhir light up Durban (2007)

The inaugural ICC T20 World Cup was filled with excitement, and India's opening stand of 136 against England was a game-changer. Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir were in top form, going on England's bowlers with a breeze aggression.

Sehwag: 68 off 52 balls (4 fours, 3 sixes)

Gambhir: 58 off 41 balls (7 fours, 1 six)

Their partnership laid the groundwork for India's dominant total of 218/4. England only managed to score 200/6 in response, giving India an 18-run win. While Yuvraj Singh stole the show with his six-wicket blitz later in the innings, the openers established the tone.

Rohit and Kohli dominate Ahmedabad (2021)

Fast forward to the fifth T20I in Ahmedabad in 2021, where Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli delivered a masterclass of power hitting and strategic aggressiveness. Their 94-run stand was a masterpiece in reacting to the situation and punishing loose deliveries.

Rohit: 64 off 34 balls (4 fours, 5 sixes)

Kohli: 80* off 52 balls (7 fours, 2 sixes)

Their partnership powered India to a magnificent 224/2, while England buckled under duress, scoring only 188/8. India won by 36 runs, and the openers left no question about the outcome.

Rohit and Pant's fireworks in Birmingham (2022)

In 2022, India faced England in the second T20I in Birmingham. While Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant's partnership was not the most impressive, their 49 runs at a rapid tempo stunned England.

Rohit: 31 off 20 balls (3 fours, 2 sixes)

Pant: 26 off 15 balls (4 fours, 1 six)

Their aggressive aim meant that India achieved a competitive total of 170/8. England, in response, stumbled at 121, delivering India a stunning 49-run victory. The opening pair's strong start was vital in putting England on the back foot early.

Gambhir and Rahane's steady start in Pune (2012)

Partnerships do not always have to be big to be effective. Gautam Gambhir and Ajinkya Rahane combined for a solid 42-run partnership in the 2012 Pune T20I, anchoring India's chase.

Gambhir: 16 off 16 balls (3 fours)

Rahane: 19 off 13 balls (2 sixes)

Though not extravagant, their start enabled India to chase down England's 157 with five wickets in hand and 13 balls remaining. It was a lesson on the value of partnerships in challenging chases.

A new chapter in 2025

As India prepares for the upcoming T20I series, fans would expect more opening brilliance. Whether it's Samson's power or Abhishek Sharma's timing, the stage is set for new records to be broken. Will the current batch of openers add their names to the list of legendary partnerships? This series promises excitement, drama, and, if history is any guide, some great opening stands that might influence the fate of the games.