Published By: Sayan Guha

IND vs. ENG T20I: THESE Indian Batters Have Scored a Half-Century at Eden Gardens in T20Is

  • From thrilling knocks to iconic moments, the Eden Gardens continues to host magical innings

Eden Gardens, a venue rich in cricket history, is slated to host India and England for the opening T20I of their five-match series on January 22, 2025. After nearly three years, the iconic stadium is poised to erupt with fans who have missed the thrilling atmosphere of a T20I match.

The match promises drama. India, defending World Cup champions, will meet England, the two-time T20 World Cup winners. With Suryakumar Yadav at the helm and Mohammad Shami lending his seasoned touch, India’s lineup appears formidable. Spearheaded by the indomitable Jos Buttler, England provides its star power. With the stakes high, who will write a memorable chapter in Eden this time?

Before we get started on the next game, let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable innings by Indian batters who have scored half-centuries at Eden Gardens in T20Is.

Suryakumar Yadav’s fireworks against West Indies (65 off 31 balls)

Let’s begin with SKY, the man who can flip a match on its head. Suryakumar Yadav played like a beast against the West Indies in February 2022. His 65 from just 31 balls contained a single four but an incredible seven sixes.

The West Indies bowlers had no answers as Suryakumar danced down the track, sweeping deliveries into the bleachers and cutting through the pitch with accuracy. India scored 184, and owing to his blitz, they won by 17 runs.

Rohit Sharma’s graceful assault (56 off 31 balls)

Rohit Sharma, Eden’s adored ‘Hitman,’ demonstrated why he is a fan favourite in the third T20I against New Zealand in November 2021. He scored 56 runs off 31 deliveries, lighting up the pitch with five fours and three sixes.

His seamless timing and planned aggressiveness set the tone for India’s dominant score of 184. New Zealand crumbled under duress as India cruised to a 73-run win. Eden Gardens hosted again another Sharma masterclass to remember.

Virat Kohli’s masterclass against PAK (55 off 37 balls)

When the stakes are high, Virat Kohli shines brightest. In the 2016 T20 World Cup encounter against PAK, India was chasing a modest 119 on a slow ground. Kohli stepped in under pressure but remained composed.

His unbroken 55 off 37 balls was a masterclass in patience and accuracy. Kohli pierced the gaps for seven boundaries, shifting strikes smoothly and punishing loose deliveries. India reached the mark with 13 balls to spare, and Kohli’s innings became a talking point because of his coolness under pressure.

Virat’s steady fifty against West Indies (52 off 41 balls)

Six years later, Kohli went at it again, this time against the West Indies in February 2022. While his 52 off 41 balls lacked the excitement of his PAK hit, it was still extremely useful.

Kohli began conservatively, laying a foundation of seven well-placed fours and a lone six. As wickets dropped around him, his innings helped India to a solid total of 186. Though it wasn’t a standout innings, it demonstrated Kohli’s ability to adjust and anchor when his side needed it.

Rishabh Pant’s finishing flourish (52 off 28 balls)

Rishabh Pant’s knock against the West Indies in February 2022 showcased elegance and substance. Pant played with confidence, striking seven fours and one six in his unbeaten 52 from 28 deliveries.

His ability to find unexpected angles and take chances paid off, guiding India to a narrow eight-run triumph. Pant’s fireworks assured that Eden’s fans went home happy.