India vs England, T20 World Cup 2024: Key player battles to watch in IND vs ENG

The second semi-final of the 2024 T20 World Cup is expected to be a thriller as two powerhouses of world cricket, India and England, will square off at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.

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India, who are unbeaten in the tournament, will take on defending champions England on Thursday (27 June). As India chase a first ICC title since 2013, the stakes are high for the Men in Blue with a place in the final on the line.

India hold the momentum thanks to their winning streak but England cannot be discounted who have looked promising since almost bowing out in the group stage itself. They also hold the psychological edge of beating India in the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final.

Rohit Sharma vs Jofra Archer

Rohit Sharma’s blistering 41-ball 92 against Australia should serve as a significant warning to England’s bowlers. Jofra Archer, known for his effectiveness with the new ball, will be tasked with the critical job of dismissing the Indian skipper early. Archer has a notable record against Rohit, having dismissed him three times in six T20I encounters. Archer has taken nine wickets this tournament with an economy rate of 7.02.

Jos Buttler vs Kuldeep Yadav

Jos Buttler carries a significant responsibility in leading England to the T20 World Cup final and defending their title. After returning to form against the USA, Buttler’s strong performance against India could be vital, particularly after his impressive innings during the semi-final of the 2022 edition.

Therefore, it will be crucial for the Men in Blue to dismiss the England captain early. Buttler has shown vulnerability to leg spinners, and Kuldeep Yadav has notably succeeded against him, dismissing him five times. Kuldeep’s favourable matchup against Buttler could be pivotal.

Jasprit Bumrah, who has dismissed Buttler four times in T20Is, and Arshdeep Singh, who is India’s leading wicket-taker in the tournament with 15, are also going to be vital in attempting to send Buttler back.

Virat Kohli vs Adil Rashid

Virat Kohli has struggled for runs in the tournament so far. However, India will be hoping that he peaks during the knockouts. Despite his recent struggles, England will not underestimate Kohli due to his high stature and ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a good scoring rate. The IND vs ENG semi-final could be the perfect stage for Kohli to regain his form.

Adil Rashid has a notable record against Kohli, having dismissed him nine times in international cricket, the most by any current English bowler.