ENG vs IND, 2nd T20I: England announces playing XI as Jofra Archer returns, Josh Tongue handed T20I debut

England have made two changes to their playing XI for the second T20I against India, with Jofra Archer returning to the side and Josh Tongue set to make his T20I debut. The second match of the five-game series will be played at Old Trafford Cricket Ground on Saturday, July 04.

The duo replaces Saqib Mahmood and Luke Wood, who featured in the rain-affected series opener, where England conceded 189 runs in their 20 overs with the ball. Both Archer and Tongue were rested for the first T20I after playing key roles in England’s recently concluded Test series against New Zealand. The duo’s return strengthens the hosts’ pace attack, with Tongue also set to achieve the milestone of making his maiden T20I appearance for England.

Mahmood, despite producing an impressive spell of 3/33 in the opening match, has made way alongside Wood as England opted to rotate their fast-bowling resources.

The hosts have retained the remainder of their lineup, with Phil Salt and Jos Buttler expected to continue opening the innings. Captain Harry Brook will once again occupy the No. 3 position, while Jacob Bethell and Tom Banton are set to strengthen the middle order.

England have also persisted with a three-spin strategy, with veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid, left-arm spinner Liam Dawson, and all-rounder Will Jacks expected to share the spin-bowling duties. Jacks will also provide additional firepower with the bat alongside all-rounder Sam Curran.

The opening T20I of the series ended without a result after rain interrupted proceedings following India’s first innings, setting up an important contest in Manchester as both teams look to gain the upper hand in the five-match series.

Meanwhile, the suspense surrounding the much-anticipated debut of the Indian teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is nowhere to be stopped. With Sanju Samson struggling for consistency, Vaibhav can be considered as an opener for the second T20I.

England Playing XI for 2nd T20I:

Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Harry Brook (c), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue.

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