In the opening ODI of the three-match series against India in Nagpur, England captain Jos Buttler won the toss and elected to bat first. This decision comes ahead of what is expected to be an exciting encounter, with both teams fine-tuning their squads for the Champions Trophy.
Virat Kohli’s Injury Blow
The biggest talking point leading into the match is the absence of Virat Kohli, who has been ruled out due to a right knee injury suffered during training on Wednesday evening. Kohli’s absence is a significant blow to India, but it provides an opportunity for young talents to shine in his stead.
Debuts for Jaiswal and Rana
India have handed Yashasvi Jaiswal and Harshit Rana their ODI debuts. Jaiswal, the talented opening batter, has been in excellent domestic form, and his inclusion in the top order will be crucial. Rana, a promising pace bowler, also enters the fold as part of a refreshed Indian lineup that looks to adapt to the slower conditions in Nagpur, known for its spin-friendly pitches and large outfield.
KL Rahul Wins Wicketkeeping Spot
India’s top four sees a reshuffle as KL Rahul edges out Rishabh Pant for the wicketkeeping role. This change could provide more stability to the batting order. Along with the ever-reliable Hardik Pandya and the returning Kuldeep Yadav, India’s balance looks well-suited to tackle England’s potent attack.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Return
The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, a left-arm wrist spinner, adds variety to the Indian attack, complementing the finger spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. The pitch in Nagpur, traditionally favorable for slower bowlers, should give Kuldeep the perfect platform to showcase his skills.
England’s Lineup and Key Changes
England, on the other hand, have brought Joe Root back into the fold for the first time since their disappointing World Cup defense. Root’s return is seen as a welcome boost for a team looking to regain some form ahead of the Champions Trophy. His experience and consistency in the middle order could prove pivotal.
Fast bowler Saqib Mahmood earns his third ODI cap and joins Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse in a three-pronged pace attack. Notably, Mark Wood has been rested for this game, which opens the door for Mahmood to impress in the absence of the express pace bowler. England’s spin options come from Adil Rashid, with Liam Livingstone and Jacob Bethell offering part-time spin support.
Both Teams Eye Champions Trophy Preparations
Both teams are using this series as a critical warm-up ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. India’s recent ODI form has been underwhelming, winning just two of their last six ODIs since the last World Cup. England, meanwhile, has managed a modest 4 out of 11 in the same period. The pressure is on both teams to find their best combinations ahead of the next global tournament.
Team Lineups for the First ODI:
India
- Rohit Sharma (capt)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shreyas Iyer
- Shubman Gill
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Harshit Rana
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
England
- Ben Duckett
- Phil Salt (wk)
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jos Buttler (capt)
- Liam Livingstone
- Jacob Bethell
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
- Saqib Mahmood
This encounter in Nagpur promises to be an exciting start to the series, with both teams eager to fine-tune their preparations for the Champions Trophy. Kohli’s absence might just make room for fresh talent to shine, while both teams will look to iron out any kinks in their lineup as they target a successful 50-over campaign. Keep an eye on Jaiswal, Rana, and Root—the players to watch as the match unfolds!