India and England T20 series heads to third match amid squad debate

The five‑match T20 International series between India and England continues on 7 July 2026 with the third game scheduled for 22:00 IST in Nottingham. India entered the series trailing 0‑1 after losing the second match, where newcomer Vaibhav Suryavanshi made his debut and became the youngest player to appear for India in a T20I, scoring 14 runs before being dismissed. England secured a four‑wicket victory in that match, anchored by Jacob Bethall's unbeaten 76.

Ahead of the third encounter, India’s selection has sparked criticism. Former player and commentator Aakash Chopra called the decision to drop wicket‑keeper Sanju Samson in favour of Vaibhav Suryavanshi “unfair,” arguing that Samson’s recent low scores do not outweigh his prior contributions, including a World Cup win. The Indian squad for the series includes captain Shreyas Iyer, wicket‑keeper Ishan Kishan, and other regulars such as Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma and Harshit Rana. England’s side features captain Harry Brook, wicket‑keeper Jos Batty, and bowlers like Tom Banton and Liam Dawson.