India vs England, T20Is: Key takeaways from the five-match series
Team India won the deciding fifth T20I against England to clinch the series 3-2 on Saturday. India posted 224/2 in 20 overs as England faltered from 130/1 to finish at 188/8. This was India's sixth consecutive T20I series victory. Ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup later this year, both teams have shown their credentials. Here we present the key takeaways from the series.
Virat Kohli a true T20I legend
Indian captain Virat Kohli deserves all the plaudits for his contribution. He smashed three unbeaten fifties in the series and set the record for most runs in a bilateral series amongst full member teams (231). He helped India chase in the second T20I before playing two durable knocks in the fourth and fifth T20I. Kohli's average of 52.65 shows his legendary status in T20Is.
Suryakumar Yadav could be a major asset
Suryakumar Yadav was brilliant with the bat, scoring 57 in his debut innings in the fourth T20I. The manner in which he came in and got going gave an indication of his prowess. In the decider, Surya scored a brisk 32 at number three. His approach in the T20Is backed by consistency in the IPL of late could see him be a major asset.
Hardik Pandya's presence a boost for India
Hardik Pandya is getting back to his groove after an injury layoff. Making a comeback to the side, Pandya had a decent series. He scored 19, 17, 11, and 39*. The biggest plus was his ability to bowl once again as he claimed three wickets. What Pandya brings is a quality finisher in the ranks, besides being the third or fourth seam option.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is priceless in this Indian team
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was at his best in the series, hardly giving anything away. He was India's best bowler and helped the side win the deciding encounter. Bhuvi has missed a lot of cricket due to injury of late and India will hope he remains fit for the T20 World Cup. Alongside Jasprit Bumrah, the senior pacer could be a real force for Team India.
England's bowling in PP overs a big plus
What England did so well in the series was their show in the powerplay overs. They asked several questions to the Indian batsmen. England pacers mixed things around and gave a solid account of themselves. Not to forget Adil Rashid's significance as well. India managed scores of 22/3, 50/1, 24/3, 42/1, and 60/0 in the PP overs. England will want to build on this.
