The cricket world is abuzz as India and England gear up for the 3rd T20 match of the ongoing five-match series. Scheduled to take place on January 28, 2025, at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, this game promises to be another thrilling encounter. With India securing victories in the first two matches, the pressure is on England to bounce back and keep the series alive.
Let us dive deep into the match prediction, key stats, and team analysis for today’s game.
Pitch Report and Conditions in Rajkot
The Niranjan Shah Stadium is well-known for its batter-friendly pitch. Historically, the surface offers consistent bounce, allowing batters to play their shots freely. The boundaries in Rajkot are relatively shorter, adding to the high-scoring nature of matches played here.
- Total T20I Matches Played: 5
- Matches Won by India: 4
- Matches Won by Opponents: 1
India’s dominant record at this venue includes notable wins against strong teams:
- 2013: Defeated Australia by 6 wickets
- 2019: Overpowered Bangladesh by 8 wickets
- 2022: Crushed South Africa by 82 runs
- 2023: Thrashed Sri Lanka by 91 runs
Weather conditions in Rajkot are expected to be clear and pleasant, making it ideal for cricket. With no rain forecasted, fans can look forward to an uninterrupted game.
India’s Current Form and Key Players
India has been in sensational form, clinching victories in the first two matches of the series. Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, the team has displayed remarkable composure and skill. However, injuries to Rinku Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy have forced India to make changes. Shivam Dube and Ramandeep Singh have been brought in as replacements.
Key Players to Watch for India
Tilak Varma:
- Match-winning unbeaten 72 in the 2nd T20
- Consistent performer in high-pressure situations
Yuzvendra Chahal:
- Exceptional bowling in the middle overs
- Ability to turn matches with crucial breakthroughs
Hardik Pandya:
- All-round contributions as captain
- Reliable with both bat and ball
Shubman Gill:
- Explosive opener capable of providing a strong start
India’s recent success at Rajkot further bolsters their confidence heading into this match.
England’s Current Form and Challenges
England, led by Jos Buttler, has faced setbacks in the series so far. Despite putting up competitive scores, their inability to contain India’s batting lineup has been a concern. The visitors are now in a must-win situation to stay alive in the series.
Key Players to Watch for England
Jos Buttler:
- Experienced captain and explosive batter
- Needs to lead from the front with a big innings
Sam Curran:
- Versatile all-rounder who can contribute in both departments
Adil Rashid:
- Veteran spinner with the ability to trouble Indian batters
Harry Brook:
- Emerging talent who can change the game with aggressive batting
England’s bowling attack must step up to restrict India’s free-flowing batting if they are to stand a chance.
Head-to-Head Record: India vs England in T20 Internationals
- Total Matches Played: 26
- India Wins: 15
- England Wins: 11
India holds the edge in head-to-head encounters, and their dominance continues in this series. England will need to overcome this psychological barrier and execute their game plan flawlessly.
Predicted Playing XIs
India’s Predicted XI
- Shubman Gill
- Ishan Kishan (wk)
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya (c)
- Shivam Dube
- Axar Patel
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Arshdeep Singh
- Mohammed Siraj
- Ramandeep Singh
England’s Predicted XI
- Jos Buttler (c & wk)
- Dawid Malan
- Harry Brook
- Moeen Ali
- Ben Stokes
- Sam Curran
- Chris Woakes
- Adil Rashid
- Mark Wood
- Reece Topley
- Jofra Archer
Key Matchups to Watch
Tilak Varma vs Adil Rashid:
- Can Rashid’s spin outwit India’s in-form batter?
Hardik Pandya vs Sam Curran:
- Two world-class all-rounders going head-to-head.
Jos Buttler vs Yuzvendra Chahal:
- Buttler’s power-hitting against Chahal’s guile will be crucial.
Indian Pacers vs English Openers:
- Early breakthroughs by India’s pace attack can set the tone for the match.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s Match?
Based on current form, head-to-head records, and conditions at Rajkot, India holds the upper hand in this contest. The team’s superior depth in both batting and bowling gives them a significant advantage. However, England is a formidable side capable of bouncing back. If their key players deliver, they can make this match a nail-biter.
Prediction:
- India’s Win Probability: 65%
- England’s Win Probability: 35%
How to Watch India vs England 3rd T20 Live
Fans can catch the live action of the India vs England 3rd T20 match on Disney+ Hotstar, starting from 7:00 PM IST. The match will also be broadcast on Star Sports Network in India.
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