England have officially unveiled their playing XI for the third T20I of the five-match series against India, scheduled to be played at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on Tuesday, July 7. The hosts head into the contest full of confidence after registering a four-wicket victory in Manchester, giving them a 1-0 lead in the series following the rain-abandoned opening game.
Led by Harry Brook, England have decided to stick with the same combination that successfully chased down 191 in the previous match. The team management has shown complete faith in the players who delivered under pressure, as the Three Lions look to move one step closer to sealing the series on home soil.
England announce playing XI for 3rd T20I against India
England have retained the same XI that produced an impressive run chase at Old Trafford, with Phil Salt and Jos Buttler continuing as the opening pair. Captain Brook will once again occupy the No. 3 position, followed by Jacob Bethell and Tom Banton, both of whom played crucial roles in England’s victory in the second T20I.
The all-round trio of Sam Curran, Will Jacks and Liam Dawson provides balance to the side, while veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid continues to lead the spin attack. The pace department remains unchanged as Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue retain their places after helping restrict India in the previous contest.
The decision to back the same XI comes after England’s middle order delivered when it mattered most. Bethell remained unbeaten on 76 off 46 deliveries, while Brook and Banton chipped in with quickfire knocks to help England chase down the target with an over to spare.
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India under pressure ahead of must-win encounter
While England have opted for continuity, India head into the third T20I under considerable pressure. Shreyas Iyer’s side is still searching for its first win of the series after the opening match was washed out and the visitors suffered a four-wicket defeat in Manchester.
India posted a competitive total of 190 in the previous game and reduced England to 1/2 inside the opening over, but were unable to capitalize on the early breakthroughs. Brook’s explosive counterattack and Bethell’s composed unbeaten innings shifted the momentum in England’s favour, while the expensive 17th over from Ravi Bishnoi proved to be a decisive turning point.
With England holding a 1-0 advantage, the third T20I becomes a must-win fixture for India to keep their hopes of winning the series alive. Another defeat would hand the hosts a commanding lead with only two matches remaining.
England Playing XI for 3rd T20I vs India: Harry Brook (c), Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue.
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