India vs England: India's Predicted XI For the First T20I

Lower-middle order: MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya

The part of this team sheet that is the easiest to pick, the lower middle order comprises of the wicketkeeper MS Dhoni and the explosive seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

Dhoni was back at his explosive best in the IPL, and in what may possibly be his last ever T20 series, he will be looking to replicate that form and kick-start India's limited overs leg of England on a good note.

The seam-bowling all-rounder is said to be an essential part of any team that performs well in English conditions, and it is with this thinking of overseas conditions that the management of the Indian team has persisted with Hardik Pandya for so long. It is time that he repays this faith and contributes in all three departments: with the bat, with the ball, and in the field.

He has shown the ability to do it in the past, and if he can combine that natural ability of his with the consistency that has seemed to somewhat elude him, it will give India their best chance of doing well in England.