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The battle between India and England moves from the fast-paced T20 format to the 50-over format, with a three-match ODI series that has fans excited. The first ODI is set to take place at Nagpur, where both teams will aim to start on a strong note.
India sealed the T20I series 4-1, but with a fresh squad and a different set of players, the ODI series is an entirely new challenge. Rohit Sharma, leading the Indian side, will look to assert dominance on home soil. Meanwhile, Jos Buttler and his men will be determined to bounce back and show their class in the longer format.
Match Details
| Match | India vs England – 1st ODI |
|---|---|
| Tournament | England Tour of India, 2025 |
| Match Number | 1st ODI |
| Date | Thursday, February 8, 2025 |
| Time | 1:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur |
| Broadcast | Star Sports, Disney+ Hotstar |
Team Previews
India Preview
India enter the ODI series with a well-balanced squad comprising experienced players and young talents. At the top, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill are expected to provide a solid foundation. Rohit and Kohli, despite recent criticisms in red-ball cricket, have been dominant forces in ODIs and will look to make an impact.
The middle order features reliable names like Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, who have performed consistently in home conditions. Hardik Pandya, an integral part of the team, will play the role of a finisher while also contributing with the ball.
The bowling attack will be led by Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh, with Shami returning to ODIs after a lengthy break. Arshdeep, still adjusting to the format, will be keen to prove himself against England’s aggressive lineup. Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja bring variety to the spin department, with Kuldeep being the biggest threat to England’s batters.
Key Players: Shreyas Iyer, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya
India Predicted Playing XI:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
England Preview
After a disappointing T20I series, England will look for redemption in the ODI format. However, their recent 50-over record has not been encouraging, with series losses against Australia (2-3) and the West Indies (1-2).
England’s batting unit is full of potential match-winners. Jos Buttler, Joe Root, and Harry Brook will be key to their success. Root, in particular, enjoys playing in Indian conditions, boasting an ODI average of 49.16 in India. Brook, an exciting young talent, will look to dominate the middle order.
At the top, Ben Duckett and Phil Salt will provide attacking starts, while Liam Livingstone and Jamie Overton add firepower in the later stages.
The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Jofra Archer and Saqib Mahmood, with their ability to extract bounce and movement proving crucial. Brydon Carse, who showed promise in the T20Is, will also be a key figure. Adil Rashid, England’s best spinner, will be relied upon to trouble India’s batters in the middle overs.
Key Players: Joe Root, Harry Brook, Adil Rashid
England Predicted Playing XI:
- Phil Salt (wk)
- Ben Duckett
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jos Buttler (C)
- Liam Livingstone
- Jacob Bethell
- Adil Rashid
- Jofra Archer
- Brydon Carse
- Saqib Mahmood
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Wicket-Keepers | Jos Buttler (C) | England |
| KL Rahul | India | |
| Batters | Rohit Sharma (VC) | India |
| Joe Root | England | |
| Harry Brook | England | |
| All-Rounders | Hardik Pandya | India |
| Ravindra Jadeja | India | |
| Bowlers | Kuldeep Yadav | India |
| Adil Rashid | England | |
| Mohammed Shami | India | |
| Jofra Archer | England |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Weather Report
The weather in Nagpur is expected to be clear, with no chances of rain. The temperature will be between 22-31°C, making for perfect playing conditions.
Pitch Report – Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium
The surface at Nagpur is known for being a balanced track. Pacers will get early movement under lights, while spinners will play a crucial role as the game progresses. The pitch tends to slow down, making stroke-making difficult in the middle overs.
Toss: To Bowl
The trend at this venue favors chasing teams, with six of the nine ODIs here being won by teams batting second. With dew likely to set in, captains will prefer to bowl first and chase a total under the lights.
Average 1st Innings Score: 288
Highest Total Recorded: 354/7 (India vs Australia, 2009)
IND vs ENG – Winning Prediction
This ODI series is crucial for both teams, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy approaching. India, playing at home, have an edge with a more balanced squad and strong spin options. England, however, will look to challenge India with their aggressive batting approach and fast bowlers.
Despite England’s potential, India’s superior record at home and their in-form squad make them the favorites for this contest.
Prediction: India to win
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