India vs England 1st ODI: All Eyes on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as India Eyes Strong Comeback

Birmingham: India will begin their three-match ODI series against England on Tuesday, with experienced stars Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah returning to the 50-over format in a crucial contest ahead of next year’s ICC Cricket World Cup.

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Following a disappointing T20 campaign against England, Team India will be eager to regain confidence, and much of that responsibility will rest on the shoulders of Rohit and Kohli, two of India’s most successful ODI batters.

Both veterans are expected to play a key role as they look to cement their places in India’s squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup. However, they will face a challenging English pace attack led by Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue.

India’s batting line-up also features captain Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer, providing depth and experience in the middle order. Their presence is expected to strengthen the batting unit against England’s quality bowling attack.

The return of Jasprit Bumrah is a major boost for India’s bowling department. His experience and ability to deliver under pressure are expected to ease the burden on the pace attack. Young pacer Gurnoor Brar will also be closely watched as he prepares for his first major challenge in English conditions, while Arshdeep Singh is expected to play an important supporting role.

Shivam Dube has been included in the squad to provide an additional pace-bowling option, replacing Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

India will also expect improved performances from all-rounders Washington Sundar and Axar Patel, while spinner Kuldeep Yadav remains a key wicket-taking option in the middle overs.

England, meanwhile, have not played an ODI since January 27, which could work in India’s favour. However, the hosts will enter the series with confidence after their recent T20 success. Their batting line-up will be anchored by Joe Root, alongside Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, and Jos Buttler.

The opening ODI is expected to provide both teams with an important opportunity to build momentum ahead of a packed international calendar.

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