India began their T20 series against England with a dominant seven-wicket win, commanding the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The game showcased India's all-round excellence from the bowling end to the brilliant knock by Abhishek Sharma, leaving England to struggle for answers. England’s woes with the Bat. After winning the toss, England opted to bat first but faced a determined Indian bowling attack.

Early on, Arshdeep Singh struck to dismiss Philip Salt in the first over. England captain Jos Buttler then tried to anchor the innings with a fighting 68 off 47 balls, but there was little support from the other end. Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy really bailed out their team in the middle overs by not letting England's batters breathe freely. Chakaravarthy's mystery spin claimed two crucial wickets, while Axar's accuracy proved instrumental in drying up runs. Eventually, England's batting lineup broke, and they were bowled out for a modest 132 in 19.5 overs.

Sharma the Show-stealer

Just like 133, India came batting with an attacking intent to throttle. Opener Abhishek Sharma was absolutely in form and smashing a breathtaking 79 off just 34 balls. His innings highlight was eight boundaries and five humongous sixes that left the English bowlers clueless. Partnered by Sanju Samson, who contributed a calm and composed 24, Sharma ensured India’s chase was never in doubt. Even after losing a couple of quick wickets, Tilak Verma calmly finished the job with a boundary, sealing the win in just 12.5 overs.

Shami Benched: A Strategic Move?

One of the surprising decisions was Mohammed Shami being benched for the game. Although Shami's experience will be crucial going forward, it was an opener for the Indians to test out their young bowlers as well. As it happened, Arshdeep Singh who is now the leading wicket taker for India in T20I led the pace line-up fantastically, giving overs in the powerplay and denied England from even getting into rhythm. The policy not only meant India could show off its riches in the bowling department, but also hold Shami up for upcoming Champions Trophy to nullify risk pertaining to injuries.

Turning Points of the Match India's Powerplay Bowling:

The early break-throughs came from Arshdeep Singh, as well as other disciplined bowling set the tone on the field where England really looked to struggle with their batsman.

Buttler's Lone Fight:

Though Jos Buttler's half-century showed resilience, the lack of partnerships hurt England's chances of posting a competitive total. Abhishek's Explosive Start: Sharma's aggressive knock dismantled England's hopes of defending the total, taking the game away in the powerplay itself. England will have to rethink their tactics, especially versus spin. Jos Buttler and Adil Rashid might hold the key as far as playing the Indian attack is concerned. The focus for India will be to maintain the momentum achieved in the match and maybe giving some game time to Mohammed Shami, who would come in to provide valuable experience. India being 1-0 up in the series, England will look to level the series and not go into the final match looking to win a match. There will be a great battle here as both the teams look to outsmart each other in the challenging conditions of Chennai.

Brief scores:

England 132 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 68; Varun Chakaravarthy 3/23, Arshdeep Singh 2/17) lost to India 133/3 in 12.5 overs (Abhishek Sharma 79; Jofra Archer 2/21) by7 wickets England 132 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 68; Varun Chakaravarthy 3/23, Arshdeep Singh 2/17) lost to India 133/3 in 12.5 overs (Abhishek Sharma 79; Jofra Archer 2/21) by7 wickets