Fri Jan 24 21:42:54 UTC 2025: ## India Takes 1-0 Lead Against England, Shami’s Fitness in Doubt for Chennai T20I
**Chennai, India –** India stormed to a dominant victory over England in the first T20I in Kolkata, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. The hosts showcased a complete performance, excelling with both bat and ball, defying pre-match expectations of a close contest. A strong spin attack, spearheaded by Varun Chakravarthy, stifled the English batsmen, while Abhishek Sharma provided a finishing flourish. Arshdeep Singh, the only frontline pacer in the Indian XI, received able support from Hardik Pandya.
The focus now shifts to the second T20I in Chennai, where the fitness of Mohammed Shami remains a major talking point. Shami, who hasn’t played for India in 14 months, participated in net sessions but appeared hampered by leg injuries, raising doubts about his participation. The Chepauk stadium’s spin-friendly pitch may further influence the team’s decision. India is expected to retain its strong spin contingent of Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, and Chakravarthy. Shami’s potential inclusion could see Nitish Kumar Reddy, who impressed in the field, dropped from the XI.
Adding to India’s concerns, opening batsman Abhishek Sharma suffered a knee injury on the eve of the Chennai match. His availability is uncertain, with Dhruv Jurel or Washington Sundar potential replacements. Suryakumar Yadav or Tilak Varma could also be tasked with opening the innings if needed.
England, meanwhile, announced a single change to their XI for the Chennai match, bringing in Brydon Carse for Gus Atkinson. The visitors also added Jamie Smith as a 12th man, with Jacob Bethell’s participation uncertain.
The second T20I promises a fascinating encounter, with India’s lineup uncertainties and Shami’s fitness the key storylines. The match will be played at the iconic Chepauk stadium on Saturday.
First Piper 