IND vs ENG 2nd T20I: India Bat First, Sooryavanshi Debuts as Youngest Player

India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bat first against England in the second T20I of the five-match series at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday. The major team news came with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi being handed his senior India debut, ending weeks of anticipation over his first international appearance. Sanju Samson made way for the teenage batter as India made a significant change to its top order for the crucial encounter.

Sooryavanshi received his debut cap from Tilak Varma before the match and became the youngest player to represent India in international cricket at the age of 15 years and 99 days. The highly rated left-handed batter was included in the playing XI alongside Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order, while Ishan Kishan retained the wicketkeeping duties. England captain Harry Brook said his team had done its homework on the teenage debutant ahead of the contest.

The second T20I began at 7 pm IST, with the toss taking place at 6.30 pm IST. The match is available for television and online viewing in India, allowing fans to follow Sooryavanshi’s much-awaited international debut. The teenager’s inclusion has added further interest to the contest after he remained out of the playing XI during India’s recent matches despite considerable excitement surrounding his selection.

Also Read: IND vs ENG, 1st T20: Can Shreyas Iyer Open His Captaincy Account?

India entered the match looking to take the lead in the five-match series after the opening T20I ended without a result. The team is also searching for its first victory under newly appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer following a disappointing 0-2 series defeat against Ireland. By choosing to bat first in Manchester, India will hope to put up a strong total and place England under pressure in the second innings.

India’s playing XI consists of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Harshit Rana, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy. England named Philip Salt, Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue in its playing XI.

With India batting first and Sooryavanshi making his historic debut, the second T20I has gained added significance for the visitors. The teenager’s first appearance at international level will be closely watched after his rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket. India will now look to turn the excitement surrounding his debut into a strong team performance and secure its first victory of the series.

Also Read: India Vs Ireland 1st T20I Live Streaming: When And Where To Watch Live Telecast