Ind vs Eng 4th T20I: With the T20I series now at 2-1, England have kept their hopes alive with a crucial win in Rajkot. After back-to-back losses, they responded with a commanding performance to deny India a series-clinching victory. Skipper Jos Buttler has led from the front, while England’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, has been a serious threat. Meanwhile, India will look to bounce back in Pune, relying on Suryakumar Yadav’s firepower and their spin duo of Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. With just two games left, both teams are bracing for an intense battle!
Match Details
Information | Details |
---|---|
Date | January 31, 2025 |
Day | Friday |
Time | 7:00 PM Local |
Venue | MCA Stadium, Pune |
Match | 4th T20I, England Tour of India 2025 |
Teams | India vs England |
Head-to-Head Rivalry
Stats | India | England |
---|---|---|
Total Matches | 27 | 27 |
Wins | 15 | 12 |
Lost | 12 | 15 |
Tied | 0 | 0 |
No Result | 0 | 0 |
Win % | 55.56% | 44.44% |
MCA Stadium, Pune: Pitch Report
Pitch Behavior
The surface at MCA Stadium in Pune is known for assisting batters while also providing something for the pacers early on. The pitch generally offers true bounce and good carry, making stroke play easier, especially under lights. However, as the match progresses, spinners can come into play due to the grip and turn available on the surface. The average first-innings score here is around 175-185 runs, indicating a competitive total.
Boundaries
MCA Stadium has relatively large square boundaries, which require batters to time their shots well rather than rely solely on power-hitting. The outfield is quick, ensuring good value for well-placed shots.
Weather Conditions
Pune is expected to have clear skies on January 31, 2025, with temperatures ranging between 87°F (31°C) during the day and 62°F (17°C) at night. Humidity levels will be moderate, and there is no rain forecasted, ensuring a full match without interruptions.
Toss Impact
Historically, the toss has not played a decisive role at MCA Stadium, as both batting first and second have resulted in equal success. Out of the four T20Is played at this venue:
- Teams batting first have won 2 matches.
- Teams chasing have also won 2 matches.
- The highest total recorded here is 206/6 by Sri Lanka vs India (2023).
- The lowest total recorded is 101 all out by India vs Sri Lanka (2016).
Captains may still prefer to bowl first under lights to take advantage of early swing and dew in the second innings.
Key Pitch Insights
- For Batters: Playing through the line is effective, and batters should target the shorter straight boundaries. Powerplay overs are key for setting the tone.
- For Bowlers: Pacers must exploit the early swing and seam movement, while spinners should aim for the middle overs, where the surface provides some turn and grip.
Ind vs Eng 4th T20I Playing 11
India:
Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Dhruv Jurel, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy.
England:
Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (c), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Smith (wk), Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Adil Rashid.
Probable Best Players
India
- Best Batter – Suryakumar Yadav
Skipper Suryakumar Yadav is India’s biggest match-winner in the T20 format. Known for his 360-degree stroke play, he thrives under pressure and can take the game away from the opposition in no time. With his ability to counter both pace and spin, SKY will be crucial in India’s quest to seal the series. - Best Bowler – Varun Chakravarthy
The mystery spinner has been in sensational form, picking up 10 wickets in just three matches, including a stunning five-wicket haul. His variations and accuracy make him a lethal threat, especially in the middle overs when England’s batters will look to accelerate.
England
- Best Batter – Jos Buttler
Captain Jos Buttler remains England’s most dangerous batter in T20Is. His ability to accelerate after getting set makes him a nightmare for bowlers. If he finds his rhythm early, he can single-handedly turn the game in England’s favor, making him their most vital player in this must-win clash. - Best Bowler – Jofra Archer
The express pace of Jofra Archer has been a game-changer for England. His ability to bowl fiery bouncers, pinpoint yorkers, and generate swing makes him a constant threat. If he gets early breakthroughs, England could put India under immense pressure.
Session Predictions & Tips for 4th T20I
First Innings Powerplay (Overs 1-6):
- Expected Runs: 45-55
- Wickets: 1-2
- Conditions: The pitch at MCA Stadium in Pune offers good bounce and carry, allowing batsmen to play their shots freely in the early overs. However, bowlers who can exploit early movement may find success.
First 10 Overs:
- Expected Runs: 80-90
- Insights: A solid start in the first 10 overs is crucial for setting up a competitive total, especially considering the venue’s batting-friendly nature. Teams should aim to capitalize on the fielding restrictions and build a strong foundation.
Death Overs (Overs 16-20):
- Expected Runs: 50-60
- Strategy: The latter part of the innings is ideal for aggressive batting, with the flat pitch and consistent bounce aiding in maximizing the scoring rate. Batsmen should target the shorter boundaries and utilize innovative shots to accelerate the run rate.
Ind vs Eng Match Prediction
Scenario 1: India Bat First
- Projected Score: 190-200 runs
- Key Contributors: Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma are expected to anchor the innings, with Hardik Pandya providing the finishing touches.
Scenario 2: England Bat First
- Projected Score: 180-190 runs
- Key Contributors: Jos Buttler and Ben Duckett are anticipated to provide a solid foundation, with Liam Livingstone and Harry Brook adding depth to the batting lineup.
Given the batting-friendly conditions at MCA Stadium, both teams will look to leverage their strong batting line-ups to post or chase substantial totals. The outcome may hinge on how well the bowlers can adapt and execute their plans under pressure.
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