Live Updates: India vs England in Cricket World Cup 2023 – After a week-long hiatus, the dominant Indian team resumes its quest for a semifinal spot as they clash with England at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium on Sunday. On paper, the match seems heavily lopsided. The Men in Blue have only grown stronger with each game, while Jos Buttler’s England teeter on the edge of elimination. With four losses in five matches, their World Cup journey hangs by a thread. A defeat today would further dim their chances, while a victory might momentarily revive their fading hopes. However, given England’s current form and the formidable opponent they face, the prospect of a turnaround appears increasingly unlikely.

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 However, India faces a significant setback with the absence of Hardik Pandya, who hasn’t healed in time for today’s match or the upcoming one against Sri Lanka in Mumbai on Thursday. Initially considered a minor ankle sprain, Hardik’s injury has now been diagnosed as a Grade 1 ligament tear, demanding another 5-6 days for recovery. Despite his return to bowling and training at the NCA, the exact timeline for his complete recovery remains uncertain, casting a shadow of uncertainty over India’s prospects.

Hardik’s injury has stirred speculation about the team combinations. India tested Mohammed Shami against New Zealand, where he delivered a stellar five-wicket performance. However, the Ekana pitch today is expected to be vastly different from the one in Dharamsala. Lucknow’s surface is slow and low, enhanced by the presence of black soil that favors spinners. India is likely to rely on Ravichandran Ashwin in these conditions. With England’s campaign in disarray, India aims to capitalize with their spin trio of Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav. Dropping Shami after his recent heroics seems unjust, so it’s probable that either Mohammed Siraj will be rested, allowing the Shami-Bumrah pair to lead the pace attack. Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill practicing their right-arm medium bowling suggests they might step in if needed.

India, the sole unbeaten team in the tournament, temporarily lost their top spot to South Africa. They now have the chance to reclaim the summit, having played one game less than the Proteas. Facing the defending champions, whom they lost to in last year’s T20 World Cup semifinal, provides an opportunity for redemption. Although a league stage clash might not offer ideal revenge, a victory would bring immense satisfaction, especially after India’s demoralizing 10-wicket defeat to England last October. The current England team pales in comparison to their former glory, presenting India with a golden opportunity to exploit their weakened state.