England's Playing XI vs India in 1st T20I: Archer OUT; Buttler and Salt to open

NEW DELHI: England have named their playing XI for the opening T20I against India, with captain Harry Brook set to lead an experienced side in the five-match series opener at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street, Durham on Wednesday. The hosts have gone with a seasoned lineup that boasts more than 650 international T20 caps, underlining their experience ahead of the much-anticipated contest. England will host India in five T20Is followed by three ODIs between July 1 and July 19. India head into the series after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Ireland in Belfast, while England return home after reaching the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup. Phil Salt and Jos Buttler are expected to open the batting, with captain Brook occupying the No. 3 spot. Young all-rounder Jacob Bethell and Tom Banton strengthen the middle order, while Sam Curran, Will Jacks and Liam Dawson provide depth with both bat and ball. The bowling attack will be led by pacers Saqib Mahmood and Luke Wood, with veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid expected to play a key role in the middle overs. England's Playing XI vs India in 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