England have announced their playing XI for the second T20I against India at Old Trafford, making two significant changes as they look to bounce back after the rain-marred series opener.
Fast bowler Jofra Archer has returned to the side, while seamer Josh Tongue is set to make his T20I debut. The pair replaced Saqib Mahmood and Luke Wood, with the hosts aiming to strengthen their pace attack for the must-win encounter.The opening T20I at Chester-le-Street ended without a result after persistent rain washed out England’s chase. Despite the abandonment, the home side saw enough positives to retain the core of their batting unit, led by captain Harry Brook, while opting to inject fresh pace into the bowling department.
Archer’s return adds valuable experience, while Tongue’s inclusion rewards his impressive performances in the longer format. The lineup combines explosive batting with a varied bowling attack, giving the hosts plenty of depth in both departments. With India expected to field another strong side under Shreyas Iyer, the second T20I promises to be a high-intensity contest. England will be eager to make full use of home conditions and level the momentum after the weather denied fans a result in the opener. All eyes will also be on Archer’s comeback and Tongue’s maiden appearance in the shortest format as the hosts seek an early advantage in the five-match series.
Playing XI: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Harry Brook (captain), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid and Josh Tongue.
Josh Tongue set for T20I debut as Jofra Archer returns to England’s XI
Josh Tongue is set to make his T20I debut after being named in England’s playing XI for the second T20I against India at Old Trafford. The right-arm pacer replaces Luke Wood, earning his maiden opportunity in the shortest format following impressive performances in Test cricket. Known for generating steep bounce and consistent pace, the 28-year-old has established himself as a reliable fast-bowling option for England and will now look to make an immediate impact in T20 internationals. The hosts have shown faith in the Worcestershire seamer’s ability to adapt to white-ball cricket as they seek to bounce back against India. His inclusion also adds another genuine pace option alongside Jofra Archer, strengthening England’s bowling attack for the crucial encounter in the five-match series.
Jofra Archer has returned to England’s T20I playing XI for the second match against India after recovering from his latest injury setback. The express pacer replaces Saqib Mahmood, strengthening the hosts’ bowling attack as they look to register their first win of the five-match series. Renowned for his pace, bounce and ability to deliver in crucial moments, the 31-year-old’s comeback is a major boost for England. Having battled multiple injuries over the past few years, the speedster will be eager to make an immediate impact at Old Trafford. His return also reunites England with one of their most experienced white-ball bowlers, adding firepower and depth to the pace department alongside debutant Josh Tongue.