Following the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Team India is set to host England for a thrilling series of eight matches at home. The lineup consists of five T20s followed by three ODIs, with the first T20 match kicking off on January 22. While the squad for the series against England has yet to be announced, many cricket experts speculate that returning players like Riyan Parag and Shivam Dubey could feature in the T20 team. The anticipation around this series is high, as it presents an opportunity for these IPL stars to shine on the international stage against a formidable opponent.
Potential Return of Riyan Parag and Shivam Dubey
It is expected that the T20 team might resemble the squad that faced South Africa recently. Furthermore, selectors may give another chance to explosive hitters like Riyan Parag and Shivam Dubey. Riyan Parag was rewarded for his outstanding performances in the IPL with a spot in the team for the series against South Africa, but he unfortunately missed out due to injury. He did play in the T20 series against Bangladesh afterwards and now has his eyes set on donning the Indian jersey once more.
Riyan’s Impressive Record of Sixes Over Fours
Although Riyan Parag has participated in only one ODI match for India, where he scored an unbeaten 15 runs, he made his mark in T20s starting in 2024. During his T20 career, he has played nine matches and scored a total of 106 runs in six innings. Notably, Parag’s highest score stands at 34 runs. What distinguishes his performance is the incredible ratio of sixes to fours; he has hit only three fours but an impressive nine sixes, showcasing his power-hitting ability.
Eyes on Shivam Dubey
Left-handed batter Shivam Dubey has consistently excelled in domestic cricket, raising hopes for his inclusion in the squad against England. With 33 T20 International matches under his belt, Dubey has accumulated 448 runs in 24 innings, including three half-centuries. His recent form suggests he could bring valuable experience and firepower to the T20 team, making him a player to watch in the approaching series.
Conclusion: Excitement Around the Upcoming Series
The upcoming T20 series against England promises to be an exhilarating contest, especially with the potential return of standout players like Riyan Parag and Shivam Dubey. Both players are known for their hitting prowess and have the ability to change the game. As the selectors finalize the squad, fans eagerly await the announcement and look forward to witnessing these talented players showcase their skills on the international stage.