India and England are poised for an exciting clash in Lucknow, with India looking to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the 2023 World Cup. Meanwhile, the defending champions, England, are determined to restore their pride by ending India's unbeaten streak in the tournament. The two teams have had contrasting journeys in the competition so far.
India has been in sensational form, maintaining an undefeated record throughout the tournament. They have notched up five victories, placing them second on the World Cup 2023 points table with 10 points, just behind South Africa, who hold the top spot due to their superior Net Run Rate. Virat Kohli has been a standout performer, amassing 354 runs in 5 matches, establishing himself as one of the tournament's top run-scorers.
In contrast, England, the reigning champions, have struggled in the World Cup. They have suffered a series of defeats that have severely dented their title defense aspirations. Out of their five matches, they have only managed to secure a single victory. Their recent loss to Sri Lanka dealt a severe blow to their semi-final hopes, leaving them in a precarious position. England now faces the daunting task of winning all of their remaining group games to have any chance of progressing in the tournament. Their upcoming showdown against India is pivotal, as another loss would further diminish their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages.
With the match holding immense significance for both teams, the selection of starting lineups will be closely watched, potentially featuring intriguing decisions.
One notable decision is whether R Ashwin will be included in India's lineup for the clash against England. The off-spinner was part of the team in Chennai when India commenced their campaign against Australia. However, in subsequent matches, India has relied on three primary pacers, with Hardik Pandya providing additional support.
Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav have been the primary spinners in matches since the South Africa encounter. Considering England's vulnerability to spin, the team management may contemplate adding Ashwin to the lineup. Ashwin has a history of success against England, claiming 35 wickets in 23 matches, and his potential inclusion could lead to Mohammed Siraj making way, as Siraj has not quite reached the standards he set for himself in the Asia Cup 2023.
India is expected to maintain faith in Suryakumar Yadav, as confirmed by KL Rahul, with Suryakumar likely to occupy the No. 6 position until Hardik Pandya's return.
On the England side, it is anticipated that they will stick with the same lineup that played in Lucknow, with Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali entrusted with spin duties on what could be a slow track at the Ekana Stadium.
India predicted XI: Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah
England predicted XI: Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w/c), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, David Willey, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
IND vs ENG: Captain Rohit Sharma to miss blockbuster match against England with injury? Here's what to know
IND vs ENG, Weather Report: Is there any chance of rain interrupting play in Lucknow? Know here
