England vs West Indies 2nd T20I Match Preview – June 8, 2025

Date: Sunday, June 8, 2025
Time: 14:30 GMT / 7:00 PM IST
Venue: County Ground, Bristol
Series: 2nd of 3 T20Is in West Indies’ Tour of England 2025
Series Standing: England 1-0

Match Overview

After a dominant 21-run victory in the first T20I, England will look to continue their momentum and take a 2-0 series lead in the second encounter of the West Indies tour at the County Ground, Bristol. The hosts, led by the newly appointed T20I captain Harry Brook, showcased a well-rounded performance in the opener, with Jos Buttler’s 96 and Liam Dawson’s 4-wicket haul leading the way. The West Indies, on the other hand, struggled with the bat after a promising start, and will need to regroup quickly to avoid a series whitewash.

The County Ground is a traditional batting paradise, with a history of high-scoring games and equal wins for both teams batting first and chasing. A score in the range of 210-220 could be a winner, and with the toss likely to be a crucial factor, both teams will be eager to get off to a strong start.

Head-to-Head

• Total Matches Played: 36
• England Wins: 19
• West Indies Wins: 16
• No Result: 1

Pitch & Weather Conditions

Pitch Report:
The pitch at the County Ground is typically flat and true, with small boundaries that encourage aggressive batting. Spinners and power hitters tend to thrive here, and it’s a venue where high totals are not uncommon.

Weather Forecast:

• Temperature: 11°C to 18°C
• Conditions: Dry and sunny
• Rain Chance: 25% (low risk)

Probable Playing XIs

England (11/15):

1. Jamie Smith
2. Ben Duckett
3. Jos Buttler (wk)
4. Tom Banton
5. Harry Brook (c)
6. Will Jacks
7. Jacob Bethell
8. Liam Dawson
9. Brydon Carse
10. Matthew Potts
11. Adil Rashid

West Indies (11/15):

1. Evin Lewis
2. Johnson Charles
3. Shai Hope (c & wk)
4. Sherfane Rutherford
5. Rovman Powell
6. Jason Holder
7. Roston Chase
8. Romario Shepherd
9. Andre Russell
10. Gudakesh Motie
11. Alzarri Joseph

Key Players to Watch

England:

• Ben Duckett – Explosive opener with a flair for the big shot.
• Harry Brook – New captain with the potential to lead from the front.
• Liam Dawson – Star performer in the first game, with both bat and ball.
• Adil Rashid – Experience and variety in the middle overs.

West Indies:

• Shai Hope – Calm and composed, crucial for the middle order.
• Rovman Powell – Top run-scorer for the WI in 2024, looking to make an impact.
• Andre Russell – The match-winner, with the ability to change the game in an over.
• Alzarri Joseph – Key fast bowler and match-breaker.

Match Prediction

England enter the second game as clear favorites, having demonstrated their depth and balance in the first encounter. With a strong batting lineup and a bowling attack that can exploit the conditions, they are well-placed to extend their dominance. However, the West Indies have the firepower to turn the game, especially if their top order clicks and Russell is at his best.

The toss could be pivotal, with the possibility of a high-scoring chase or a calculated chase. England's 69% win probability (as per bookmakers) reflects their current form and home advantage, though the West Indies will be desperate to avoid a series defeat.

Prediction: England to win by 8-10 runs.

Fantasy & Betting Tips

• Top Batter: Jos Buttler (ENG) / Rovman Powell (WI)
• Top Bowler: Liam Dawson (ENG) / Alzarri Joseph (WI)
• Toss Prediction: Both teams might prefer to chase, but England's bowlers could push for a bat.
• Betting Odds:
  • England to win: 1.45
  • West Indies to win: 2.77
  • England to have a better opening partnership: Strong bet

Conclusion

The second T20I promises to be an exciting and high-scoring affair at the County Ground. England will look to capitalize on their recent dominance, while the West Indies must find a way to break through and level the series. With Jos Buttler and Liam Dawson in form, and Andre Russell ready to strike, the match should be a thrilling encounter for T20I fans worldwide.
“`