Image: Jacob Bethell is doubtful for England's second T20I due to illness / © Skysports
For the second T20I of the five-match series between England and India, young all-rounder Jacob Bethell’s participation is uncertain due to illness. The match, scheduled for January 25 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, follows England’s seven-wicket loss to India in the series opener at Eden Gardens. England, having posted just 132 runs in their first outing, were easily outplayed by India, who chased down the target in just 15.2 overs.
Bethell missed a training session in Chennai, and the Telegraph’s Will Macpherson reported that his illness has made him a doubtful inclusion for the second T20I. As a result, England announced a 12-member squad, with Brydon Carse replacing Gus Atkinson and wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith added to the lineup. Smith could step in for Bethell if he remains unfit.
Bethell, who has played eight T20Is, has scored 180 runs at a strike rate of 153.84. His left-arm orthodox spin makes him an important all-rounder, especially in spin-friendly conditions. The second T20I at Chennai will begin at 7:00 PM IST, with the toss at 6:30 PM IST. India has a 1-1 record in T20Is at this venue.