India's struggles in T20Is have continued under new captain Shreyas Iyer. The Men in Blue have endured a disappointing tour of England, losing the five-match
series with a game to spare after suffering a crushing nine-wicket defeat in the fourth T20I at Bristol. It also marked India's second successive bilateral T20I series defeat after their recent loss to Ireland, raising several questions about the team's combinations.
While the series result can no longer be changed, India still has an opportunity to salvage some pride in the fifth and final T20I at Southampton.
The final game also presents the team management with a chance to test a few players and combinations before shifting focus to the ODI series.
Here are 3 changes India should consider for the fifth T20I vs ENG
3. Ravi Bishnoi in for Washington Sundar
India can consider bringing back leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoiin place of Washington Sundar to strengthen their wicket-taking options in the middle overs.
Bishnoi featured in the first two T20Is but had a difficult outing in the second game, where England batter Jacob Bethell attacked him aggressively. After conceding heavily, the leg-spinner was left out of the playing XI for the remaining matches. However, one poor outing should not overshadow Bishnoi's proven ability in the shortest format.
The Men in Blue have struggled to break partnerships in the middle overs throughout the series, and Bishnoi's attacking style of bowling could provide the breakthroughs they desperately need.
2. Suryansh Shedge in for Tilak Varma
Tilak Varma has failed to live up to expectations in the series despite being one of India's most dependable T20 batters over the last couple of years. The left-hander has struggled for consistency, and with the series already decided, India could look at another option.
Suryansh Shedgedeserves an opportunity in the final T20I. The Mumbai all-rounder has impressed in domestic cricket with his aggressive batting and finishing ability. He can also chip in with medium pace, giving India an additional bowling option.
1. Sanju Samson in for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has shown glimpses of his immense talent during the series, but the teenage opener has struggled to convert his starts into substantial scores. England's experienced bowling attack has managed to keep him quiet, and India may now benefit from bringing back Sanju Samson.
Samson's experience at the international level could add more stability at the top of the order. The Kerala wicketkeeper-batter also gives a right-hand batting option to the Shreyas Iyer side. Dropping Vaibhav for one game should not be seen as a setback.
The youngster has gained valuable experience against one of the best T20I sides in the world, and a short break could help him come back stronger.
