As India and England prepare to resume their intense T20I rivalry on January 22 in Kolkata, it’s the perfect time to revisit the players who have etched their names in the history of this high-octane contest
The highly anticipated five-match T20I series between India and England begins on January 22 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Fans are eagerly awaiting the resumption of this electrifying rivalry. Over the years, several players have dominated the run charts in IND vs. ENG T20Is. Let’s take a closer look at the top five run-getters in these thrilling encounters.
Virat Kohli tops the list with an incredible 648 runs in 21 matches. His average of 38.11 and a strike rate of 135 speak volumes about his consistency. Kohli notched up five half-centuries against England, with a highest score of 80 not out. In the 2021 series, Kohli silenced critics after a poor Test series. He scored 231 runs in five matches, including three fifties, to lead India to a series victory. Despite a niggle, his 80 not out in the decider, which featured seven boundaries and 2 sixes, was a testament to his grit.
England’s current T20I captain, Jos Buttler, ranks second with 498 runs in 19 innings. His average of 33.2 and an impressive strike rate of 145.61 highlight his explosive ability. In the 2021 series, Buttler produced a masterclass with an unbeaten 83 off 52 balls, helping England secure a crucial eight-wicket victory. His innings, filled with four sixes and five boundaries, showcased his knack for delivering under pressure. Buttler’s role as a finisher has been pivotal for England in their T20I battles against India.
With 467 runs in just 15 innings, Rohit Sharma holds the third spot. Averaging 35.62 and striking at 139.82, Rohit’s performances against England have been memorable. The highlight was his unbeaten 100 in 2018, which helped India chase down England’s daunting 198 in style. In that match, Rohit’s effortless stroke play, including 11 boundaries and 5 sixes, propelled India to a series win. Though retired now, his impact on the India-England T20I rivalry remains unmatched.
Jason Roy is fourth on the list with 356 runs in 15 matches. His aggressive batting, at a strike rate of 132, has often set the tone for England. Roy’s highest score, a blistering 67 off 31 balls, came in 2018. Partnering with Jos Buttler, he smashed seven sixes and four fours in that innings, taking England to a commanding total of 198. His fearless approach at the top has been crucial in unsettling India’s bowling attack.
Former England captain Eoin Morgan completes the top five with 347 runs in 14 innings. Known for his innovative stroke play, Morgan averaged 26.69 with a strike rate of 141.63. His best performance came in 2014 when he smashed 71 off just 31 balls at Edgbaston, including seven towering sixes. That knock set up a thrilling three-run win for England. Morgan’s ability to finish games and inspire his team made him a standout performer in this rivalry.
A look at the Suryakumar Yadav-led squad for the T20I series against England 🙌#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/nrEs1uWRos
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2025
The India vs. England T20I rivalry has seen exceptional batting performances over the years. From Kohli’s unmatched consistency to Buttler’s finishing prowess, these players have left an indelible mark. The memories of these iconic knocks add to the excitement as the two teams gear up for another series.
