The World Cup is all set to enter its decisive phase with the semi-final clash of England and India. From the last two world cup’s, India and England both had bittersweet memories. England has faced India in 29 matches, in which India has won 17 matches. England has reached to this stage by narrow margins and failed to secure a dominant win. Individual heroics have remained a story for both teams. If they have Sam Curran, India have Sanju and Hardik. Both teams will try to gain the momentum in the batting paradise and will try to come as a whole unit.

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Abhishek Sharma's form is a point of concern for India, while the England team will be looking for a classic performance from Jos Buttler in the semifinals. Both teams excel in T20I cricket and have the potential to falter at any moment. However, once they gain momentum, both teams can become destructive.

Key players to watch

For India, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya are going to be important for the high-stakes clash, and eyes will also be on Abhishek Sharma. Last time the Indian team faced England in world cup it was in the 2024 semi-finals, in which Surya and Hardik played wonderful innings. In reply to India’s 171 runs, England failed to pass the line, and they got all out in 103 runs.

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England were not able to come as a group in this tournament; Sam Curran and Jamie Overton are going to be the key players for them. Buttler’s form will be one thing to assess.

Pitch report

The second semi-final at Wankhede Stadium will be played on pitch number seven, located at the centre of the square. The surface historically offers turn but looks slightly harder today after cross-rolling, with a thin grass cover that could help the ball come onto the bat. Ground dimensions are 75 metres straight and 65 metres square. With temperatures around 28–32C and a steady breeze, anti-dew treatment has been applied to keep conditions balanced.