Wed Jan 22 14:10:00 UTC 2025: ## India and England Clash in Kolkata for T20I Series Opener
**Kolkata, India** – The five-match T20I series between India and England kicks off Wednesday, January 22nd, at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. India, seeking redemption after recent Test series defeats against New Zealand and Australia, will face an England side eager to continue their aggressive white-ball approach under head coach Brendon McCullum.
England has already announced its starting XI for the first match, featuring an explosive batting lineup with Ben Duckett and Phil Salt opening, and Jos Buttler captaining at number three. The team includes Adil Rashid as the specialist spinner. Rashid’s religious beliefs, as a devout Muslim, will, as in previous victories, necessitate him remaining apart from the team’s champagne celebrations following any wins.
India, under the pressure of recent setbacks including a loss to Sri Lanka in an ODI series after 27 years, will rely on their strong T20I form, having recently triumphed against Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and South Africa. The defending T20 World Cup champions will aim to maintain their winning streak against England’s rejuvenated squad.
The series promises a thrilling encounter between two cricketing giants, with India hoping to bounce back from their Test woes and England keen to showcase their aggressive style of play.
**England’s Playing XI:** Ben Duckett, Phil Salt (wk), Jos Buttler (c), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
First Piper 