Tue Jan 21 02:20:00 UTC 2025: ## India to Experiment Against England in Build-Up to 2026 T20 World Cup
**MUMBAI, INDIA –** World T20 champions India will host England in a five-match series starting [Start Date], marking the beginning of their rebuilding phase for the 2026 T20 World Cup. While aiming to maintain their winning streak – undefeated in bilateral T20 series since August 2023 – India will utilize the series to experiment with their batting order.
Newly appointed vice-captain Axar Patel revealed a “flexible” approach, stating that batting positions three through seven will be fluid, depending on match situations and bowler matchups. This experimentation comes as India looks to carry their momentum into the next World Cup, acknowledging the short timeframe between tournaments.
England, meanwhile, arrive in India with a dip in recent T20 form following a World Cup semi-final exit. Under the new limited-overs leadership of Brendon McCullum, England hopes to revitalize their game with the inclusion of young players Jacob Bethell and Jamie Smith. Captain Jos Buttler will focus solely on batting, foregoing wicketkeeping duties for this series. McCullum expressed his desire for a captivating and competitive style of play.
The series holds historical significance, marking the first meeting between the two nations since the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. The head-to-head record is closely contested, with India leading 13-11. India enters the series on a high after recent victories against South Africa and Bangladesh. England, however, won their last bilateral T20 series against the West Indies.
Both teams have announced their squads, with India featuring returning players Mohammad Shami and Washington Sundar. England’s squad includes a mix of established players and promising newcomers. Al Jazeera will provide comprehensive coverage of the series. Tickets are available on various online platforms.
First Piper 