Published By: Sanchari Das

IND vs. ENG T20I: THESE English Batters Could Spoil India’s Party at Eden Gardens!

India's bowlers will need to be at their absolute best to counter this formidable English lineup at Eden Gardens

Eden Gardens is excitedly buzzing as England and India gear up for a high-voltage T20 clash. The series' first game promises fireworks, with England's new-look squad ready to test India on their home turf. With Brendon McCullum at the helm, England is embarking on a new white-ball era. From seasoned match-winners to rising stars, England's lineup boasts players who can turn the game on its head. In this thrilling encounter, let's dive into the key batters that could cause India headaches.

Ben Duckett

Ben Duckett is a key player for England at the top of the order. The left-hander has cemented his place in England's white-ball setup with his inventive strokeplay and ability to score all around the ground. He was a standout performer in the Big Bash League 2024-25, scoring 243 runs at an impressive strike rate of 154.77.

Duckett's proficiency on slow pitches and his sweeping skills make him a threat against India's spinners. With Jos Buttler shifting to number three, Duckett's role as an opener becomes even more crucial. If he gets going, he could anchor England's innings and set the tone for their aggressive brand of cricket.

Phil Salt

Phil Salt's explosive batting is well-suited for Eden Gardens' conditions. Known for his ability to dominate in the powerplay, Salt has scored 262 runs in his last 10 games, averaging 37.43 with a high strike rate. His experience playing in the IPL for teams like the Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals adds to his advantage.

Salt's record-breaking 331-run performance in a five-match T20I series against West Indies highlights his big-match temperament. If he finds his rhythm, he could dismantle India's bowlers in the powerplay, putting pressure on the hosts right from the start.

Jos Buttler

England's skipper, Jos Buttler, is a proven match-winner on Indian soil. He knows how to exploit the conditions, with over 3,700 runs in T20s in India. Buttler's IPL stint with Rajasthan Royals saw him smash a century at Eden Gardens, a memory Indian bowlers would rather forget.

Buttler's current form is exceptional, with 248 runs in his last eight games at a strike rate of 168.7. If he manages to stay at the crease beyond the powerplay, his aggressive strokeplay and experience could turn the game in England's favour.

Harry Brook

Harry Brook's return to the England squad adds significant depth to their batting lineup. The young vice-captain has already made a mark with 707 runs in 39 T20Is at a strike rate of 146.07. Brook's ability to switch gears makes him a vital asset in the middle order.

Brook's familiarity with Eden Gardens is a bonus, having scored a century here during IPL 2023 while playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad. His ability to counter spin and pace makes him a crucial player against India's varied bowling attack.

Jacob Bethell

Jacob Bethell, England's rising star, is set to make his mark in Indian conditions. At just 21, Bethell has already impressed with six fifties in 19 international innings. His strike rate of 167.96 in T20Is showcases his aggressive approach.

Bethell's ability to handle spin will be tested against India's Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, and Varun Chakaravarthy. His performance in this series could impact the outcome and set the stage for his IPL debut with RCB. His ability to bowl four overs of spin makes him an invaluable asset in subcontinental conditions.