IND vs ENG 2026: England Promote Jos Buttler to Open in 1st T20I Against India, Harry Brook to Lead

England have announced their playing XI for the first T20I against India, which will be played in Durham on July 1. The hosts have made a few important changes as they begin a new series and look to bounce back after a disappointing 0-2 T20I series defeat to Ireland.

The biggest change is Jos Buttler‘s return to the opening spot. He will open the innings with Phil Salt, giving England an experienced and attacking pair at the top of the order.

Harry Brook will captain the side as England continue building their T20 squad. The team management has rested fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue after their workload during the Test series against New Zealand.

England have gone with a balanced combination of five specialist batters, three all-rounders and three frontline bowlers. The lineup gives the team plenty of batting depth while keeping several bowling options available.

Jacob Bethell and Tom Banton strengthen the middle order, while Sam Curran, Will Jacks and Liam Dawson provide all-round value with both bat and ball. Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid and Luke Wood complete the bowling attack.

England will hope the fresh combination helps them make a strong start against India after their recent struggles in the shortest format. The series also gives several players a chance to make an impact ahead of a busy international season.

England’s Playing XI vs India for 1st T20I

Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Harry Brook (captain), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood.