A thrilling T20 rivalry poised to reignite
Team India is ready to change gears after a difficult five-match Test series against Australia. The next step is a home white-ball series against England, which promises to be exciting. The T20I leg begins on January 22, 2025, with matches scheduled at prominent stadiums, including Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai. As England captain Jos Buttler leads his team into battle, Indian supporters are preparing to see their beloved players flourish on the big stage.
But here’s a question to whet your cricket appetite: Who has scored the most T20I half-centuries between India and England? Let’s look at the facts, figures, and stories of five batting greats who have made their imprint on this heated rivalry.
When it comes to pursuing milestones, Virat Kohli sticks out more than anyone. Kohli has 648 runs from 21 matches versus England, including five fifties, the most of any player in this rivalry. His average of 38.11 and strike rate of 135.00 demonstrate his ability to balance caution with aggressiveness. Kohli’s expertise shines when the stakes are high. His highest score, an undefeated 80*, highlights his ability to pace an innings perfectly. Kohli’s bat has been a nightmare for English bowlers, hitting 61 fours and 19 sixes.
Rohit Sharma, also known as the Hitman, has baffled English bowlers. In 15 innings, the former Indian T20I skipper scored 467 runs, including four half-centuries. His strike rate of 139.82 demonstrates his preference for rapid runs, and his lone century against England adds another feather to his crown. Rohit’s ability to shift gears seamlessly has been critical for India. With 49 boundaries and 18 maximums, his batting is successful and entertaining.
Jos Buttler is England’s response to India’s batting superstars. The English white-ball captain has 498 runs in 19 innings, matching Rohit Sharma’s four fifties against India. His strike rate of 145.61 is the highest among the top players, making him one of the most dangerous hitters in the competition. Buttler’s ability to identify holes and define limits makes him an essential player for England. Halting Buttler’s onslaught is critical if India is to keep the series under control.
While Alex Hales has not played a T20I against India since 2022, his record is worth noting. In just 10 innings, he scored 331 runs, including three fifties, for an astounding average of 41.37. Hales’ strike rate of 134.55 shows that he could score rapidly and effectively. Though he is retired from international cricket, Hales’ efforts in previous India-England matches are remarkable.
Suryakumar Yadav, the current Indian T20 captain, completes the list, exemplifying daring batting. SKY has already scored 321 runs in seven innings, including two half-centuries, one of which is a staggering 117. His strike rate of 179.32 is mind-blowing, making him a nightmare for bowlers.
SKY’s flair for inventiveness and bold strokes has added a new dimension to India’s batting lineup. He might quickly move up the elite list in the next series with his current form.
