New Delhi: The first match of the three-match ODI series between India and England will be played in Birmingham on Tuesday. After a disappointing performance in the T20 series, Team India will now aim for a strong comeback in the ODIs. The biggest news of this series is the return of captain Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli. With the arrival of both experienced players, the team’s batting order appears stronger than before.
With the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, changes to the Indian team’s playing XI are expected. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has not been included in the squad for this series. Therefore, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are expected to open the innings. The selectors have prioritized experience and expressed confidence in this pair.
India’s biggest weakness in the T20 series was their batting. The team was unable to post a big total due to frequent wickets falling. Therefore, India may field an additional batting option in the first ODI.
Virat Kohli could bat at number three and Shreyas Iyer at number four. KL Rahul could take over as wicketkeeper, while he could also bat at number five.
In the bowling department, Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy are unavailable due to injury. Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will be responsible for all-round duties. Kuldeep Yadav will be the team’s primary bowler in the spin department.
Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh will lead the fast bowling attack. Gurnoor Brar is also likely to get a chance alongside them. Gurnoor impressed everyone with his performance in the recent ODI series.
India’s probable playing 11 against England
Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnur Brar and Jasprit Bumrah.
