India and England are set to clash for the final time in their T20I series on Sunday, February 2. This highly anticipated match was expected to be an action-packed showdown, but the series hasn’t quite lived up to its expectations. Over the past four matches, both teams have struggled to perform at their best.
The series was initially billed as a thrilling contest, particularly with the 5th and final T20I taking place at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. This venue is significant for both teams—Suryakumar Yadav plays here regularly, and Jos Buttler has made a mark during his time in the Indian Premier League at this location.
However, the excitement has fizzled after England’s batting collapse during the closing overs of the last match in Pune, allowing India to secure a 3-1 series lead. With the outcome already determined, the final match is expected to be more of a formality before both teams shift their focus to the One Day Internationals (ODIs) later on.
Despite the foregone conclusion, there is still some drama to anticipate. India’s victory in Pune was marred by controversy over a concussion substitute. After Shivam Dube was struck on the helmet, Harshit Rana stepped in for him, raising questions from England’s players and fans about the legitimacy of this change, especially since it involved a replacement from a different player type. Rana’s outstanding performance helped India clinch the win, and he may get the opportunity to start in the final match.
Sunday’s contest will serve as a battle of pride for both teams. If India comes out on top, they will have the upper hand in bragging rights, proving they are the stronger side despite the concussion substitute issue. Conversely, England will aim to secure a victory to reclaim some honor after their struggles in the series.
### Team News: India vs England, 5th T20I
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has hinted that Mohammed Shami is likely to play in the final match. Given the situation, India may choose to rest Arshdeep Singh. Morkel expressed confidence in Shami’s performance: “He has been bowling really well. We’re excited to have him back in the squad,” he said.
Additionally, India might look to give Abhishek Sharma a breather, with Yashasvi Jaiswal possibly taking his spot alongside Sanju Samson, who will be eager to find his rhythm again.
### Mumbai Pitch and Conditions
Historically, the Mumbai pitch is known for its excellent batting conditions. While there is some movement available for bowlers in the early stages, the pitch generally becomes very favorable for batters if they can weather the initial overs.
### Predicted Playing XIs
England is likely to retain their lineup as they seek redemption. Saqib Mahmood is expected to feature prominently, and if Mark Wood is fit, he may replace Jofra Archer, who has struggled in the series.
In contrast, India’s lineup could see a few changes as they test their bench strength.
### India Predicted Playing XI:
– Sanju Samson (WK)
– Yashasvi Jaiswal
– Tilak Varma
– Suryakumar Yadav (C)
– Hardik Pandya
– Shivam Dube/Ramandeep Singh
– Rinku Singh
– Axar Patel
– Varun Chakaravarthy
– Mohammed Shami
– Harshit Rana
### England Predicted Playing XI:
– Phil Salt (WK)
– Ben Duckett
– Jos Buttler (C)
– Harry Brook
– Liam Livingstone
– Jacob Bethell
– Jamie Overton
– Brydon Carse
– Gus Atkinson/Mark Wood/Jofra Archer
– Adil Rashid
– Saqib Mahmood
### IND vs ENG: When and Where to Watch
The fifth T20I between India and England will begin at 7:00 PM IST at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Fans can catch the live action on Star Sports, with streaming available on Hotstar.
