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Sanju Samson Set for Surprise Return? India’s Playing XI for 4th T20I vs England Could See 2 Big Changes… Here’s Who May Miss Out

With the series hanging by a thread, Team India are expected to ring in key changes for the fourth T20I against England, including the possible return of Sanju Samson and a reshuffled batting order.

Published

4 months ago

July 9, 2026

Cobb

Sanju Samson is expected to return as India consider key changes to their playing XI for the must-win fourth T20I against England in Bristol.

The pressure is firmly on Team India as they prepare to face England in the fourth T20I of the five-match series at the County Ground, Bristol, on Thursday, July 9. Trailing 0-2 after back-to-back defeats, the visitors have no room for error. Another loss would not only hand England the series but also mark India’s second consecutive bilateral T20I series defeat.

With the stakes at their highest, the Indian team management is expected to make a couple of significant changes to the playing XI in an attempt to revive the campaign.

Sanju Samson likely to return after two-match absence

One of the biggest talking points ahead of the must-win clash is the expected return of Sanju Samson. The stylish wicketkeeper-batter missed the previous two matches after playing the series opener, making way for teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

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However, with vice-captain Tilak Varma struggling for runs, the team could look to bring Samson back into the XI. The Kerala batter, who was named Player of the Tournament at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, brings valuable experience and stability to the batting order at a crucial stage of the series.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi expected to keep his place

Despite failing to convert his starts into a substantial innings, 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has impressed with his fearless approach against England’s bowling attack.

The young opener from Bihar is expected to retain his place in the side. India could, however, tweak the batting order by opening with Sanju Samson and Vaibhav, allowing Abhishek Sharma to move down to No. 3. Another possibility is keeping Abhishek at the top while Samson slots in at first drop.

Bowling attack could also undergo a change

India’s bowling unit may also witness an important adjustment. Leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has struggled to make an impact in the series, and his expensive spell in the previous match has raised questions over his place in the XI.

The experienced spinner conceded 35 runs in just three overs in the last game, and the team management could opt to rest him for the Bristol encounter.

In his place, all-rounder Washington Sundar appears to be the strongest contender. Apart from offering greater control with the ball, Sundar’s ability to contribute with the bat provides added balance to the playing XI—an area India have lacked during the series.

A must-win contest for Team India

The fourth T20I is more than just another match—it is a battle to keep the series alive. With England carrying momentum and India searching for answers, the selection decisions could play a defining role in the outcome.

If the expected changes click, Suryakumar Yadav‘s men could force a decider. If not, England will walk away with the series, leaving India with plenty of questions ahead of their next international assignment.