England announced their playing XI for the T20I series opener against India at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Tuesday. Jos Buttler will lead the side but has delegated wicket keeping duties to Phil Salt, continuing the arrangement from their last T20I series against the West Indies. Salt, who has experience playing at Eden Gardens with the Kolkata Knight Riders, will aim to make an impact.

Ben Duckett, a regular in the Test setup, is set to play his first T20I in India and could provide a brisk start at the top of the order. Buttler, Salt, Liam Livingstone, Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Adil Rashid bring valuable IPL experience, crucial in Indian conditions.

All-rounder Jacob Bethell, 21, will make his first appearance in India. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru recruit will hope to justify the attention from his IPL franchise. Meanwhile, Mark Wood, returning after his last international outing in August 2024, is keen on staying fit ahead of the Champions Trophy. Jofra Archer will also aim to rediscover his peak form after battling injuries.

Adil Rashid remains pivotal for middle-over breakthroughs, while England boasts a balanced bowling attack with seven options—three spinners and four pacers—ensuring depth in their line-up.