India and England will face each other in a full white-ball series, comprising five T20Is and three ODIs. The IND vs ENG bilateral series will begin with the shortest format, with the first match of the series being played tomorrow (January 22) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Notably, the visitors have named their playing XI for the first match. Interestingly, you will see two new IPL rookies acquired in last November’s mega auction in the XI: Jacob Bethell, who was bought by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for INR 2.6 crore and Jamie Overton, acquired by Chennai Super Kings (CSK). ) for INR 1.5 crores.

This will also give both players a chance to understand the Indian conditions before plying their trade in the upcoming IPL 2025 season.

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Brendon McCullum prepares for his first assignment as England white-ball coach

Additionally, pacer Gus Atkinson will return after more than a year since he last played on the West Indies tour in December 2023. He will be joined by Jofra Archer, Overton and Mark Wood in the fast bowling department.

The series will be Brendon McCullum’s first assignment after becoming all-format coach for the Three Lions and taking charge of the white-ball set-up except the longest format.

The IND vs ENG series will be extremely crucial for both the teams as it will be their last preparatory ground before heading to the Champions Trophy 2025, starting on February 19.

England XI for the 1st T20I against India:

Phil Salt (wk), Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (c), Harry Brook (vc), Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood

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