The Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune is set for a crucial encounter tonight as India takes on England in the fourth T20I. With India leading the five-match series 2-1, a win would secure the series for the home side. The match, part of the England tour of India 2025, is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST.
India’s success in the series thus far has been built on a versatile bowling attack. While their pacers have played their part, the spin quartet of Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, and Abhishek Sharma have been particularly effective. Leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has been the standout performer, leading the series wicket-takers with an impressive 10 wickets. England, meanwhile, have largely relied on the raw pace of Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Jamie Overton, though they will need more consistency from their supporting bowlers.
Despite their series lead, the Men in Blue will be looking for more substantial contributions from their captain and a key opener. Suryakumar Yadav, known for his explosive batting, has only managed 28 runs in the three matches played so far. Similarly, Sanju Samson, who has shown flashes of brilliance, has yet to convert his starts into big scores, accumulating just 34 runs. The Pune pitch, traditionally known for its batting-friendly conditions, provides the perfect opportunity for both players to find their form. England’s Harry Brook (38 runs) and Phil Salt (9 runs) are also under pressure to deliver and provide more impetus to their team’s innings.
India received a positive update on the fitness front, with assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirming that Rinku Singh is fit to play after recovering from a minor niggle. His availability could mean Dhruv Jurel misses out. The visitors face a potential selection dilemma with Jamie Smith suffering a calf strain in the previous match. Jacob Bethell, who replaced Smith in the third T20I, is likely to be in contention for a starting berth.
The Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium has a history of favouring teams batting first. Of the 64 men’s T20 matches played here, 35 have been won by the team setting the target. The black-soil pitch generally offers some assistance to spinners as well. England’s record at this venue is a cause for concern, having lost their only previous T20I here. India’s record is mixed, with two wins and two losses, including a defeat against Sri Lanka in 2023.
Head-to-Head:
India enjoy a healthy head-to-head record against England in T20Is. Out of the 27 encounters between the two sides, India have emerged victorious 15 times, while England have won 12.
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