CHENNAI – England have made key changes to their squad ahead of the second T20 International against India, set to take place on Saturday. Brydon Carse has been brought in to replace Gus Atkinson, while Jamie Smith has been added to the team as a potential debutant.
Atkinson Dropped After Expensive Spell
Gus Atkinson was dropped following an underwhelming performance in the series opener in Kolkata. The pacer conceded 38 runs in his two wicketless overs as India chased down England’s modest total of 132 with more than seven overs to spare, securing a seven-wicket victory.
Jamie Smith Set for Potential Debut
Wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith has joined the squad and could make his T20 debut after Jacob Bethell missed training on Friday due to illness. England will be hoping Smith’s inclusion adds depth and stability to their struggling lineup.
England’s Struggles Against Spin
In the first T20, England’s batting frailties against spin were brutally exposed. Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel dismantled the English batting order, claiming five wickets between them. England skipper Jos Buttler was the only batter to offer resistance, scoring a gritty 68 – more than half of the team’s total.
Harry Brook, who managed only 17 runs in the opener, admitted the conditions in Kolkata made it difficult to face spin. “Varun Chakravarthy is an exceptionally good bowler,” Brook said. “With the smog the other night, it was a lot harder to pick the ball. Hopefully, the air is clearer here, and we can see the ball better.”
Brook Reflects on His Approach to Spin
Brook, known for his aggressive batting style, acknowledged the need to improve his technique against spin in T20 cricket. “Facing spin in T20 is probably the toughest challenge,” he said. “I often get out trying to smash it. Maybe I need to dial it back a bit, but we’ll see how it goes.”
England Aim for Comeback
Trailing 1-0 in the five-match series, England will look to bounce back with the changes to their lineup. The second T20 in Chennai presents an opportunity for the visitors to address their weaknesses and level the series against world champions India.
