England vs India: Key battles to watch out for
The Indian cricket team will be up against hosts England in the match number 38 of the ICC World Cup 2019 at Edgbaston on Sunday. England are in a must-win scenario after two successive losses. On the other hand, India are a win away from semis qualification. Both teams have big performers and here we analyze the key battles to watch out for.
Bumrah versus Bairstow promises to be a delightful affair
Jasprit Bumrah has been in sublime form in the ongoing World Cup. The right-arm speedster has picked up nine scalps so far at just 21.77. His movement and purchase with the new ball will test Jonny Bairstow. Bairstow, who is an aggressive batsman, hasn't lived up to expectations in CWC 19. JB will look to make life difficult for Bairstow here.
Rashid versus Kohli will be interesting
Indian captain Virat Kohli has amassed four successive fifties in the ongoing World Cup. Kohli has played well but hasn't been able to slam a ton. England spinner Adil Rashid will test Kohli. In 2018, the leg-spinner got him twice in three games. Rashid will be teasing Kohli with his leg-breaks that troubled the latter last time around. Kohli will look to overcome him.
Archer versus Rohit another big battle on the cards
Jofra Archer has been England's best bet with the ball. The right-arm fast bowler has bowled quick, besides getting in those short balls and length deliveries to zip off the surface. Rohit Sharma will be tested by Archer atop. He plays short balls well, but the in-swing deliveries will be targeted by Archer here. It promises to be a crunch battle.
Joe Root versus the Indian wrist-spinners look promising
India's wrist-spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav will enjoy bowling at Edgbaston. The two have done a commendable job for India. Chahal in particular has dictated the key moments of the game. The two will look to have a say against Joe Root. The in-form Root handled them perfectly in the 2018 ODI series. Can he come good once again?
India go in as the favorites
India go into the match as the favorites. They are yet to lose a single game and the bowlers in particular have looked dangerous. England's batting could struggle once again. One expects England to launch a fight though in this must-win game. The match is set to start from 3:00 PM onwards IST and will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network.