England have officially announced their playing XI for the opening ODI of the three-match series against India, scheduled to be played at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Tuesday, July 14. The hosts return to 50-over cricket after nearly six months and will be hoping to begin the series on a positive note against a strong Indian side led by Shubman Gill.
Harry Brook’s men will also be looking to improve their recent ODI record against India after losing each of their last three bilateral series. With experienced campaigners returning on both sides and several key players available once again, the series promises to be an exciting contest between two quality white-ball teams.
England announce playing XI for 1st ODI against India
England have opted for an interesting change at the top of the order, with Jacob Bethell set to open the batting alongside Ben Duckett for the first time in ODI cricket. Bethell, who has featured in the middle order since making his debut, has been handed a new responsibility as England continue their search for a settled opening combination.
Joe Root returns to occupy the No. 3 position, while captain Brook will bat at four. Jos Buttler is set to achieve a major personal milestone as he prepares to play his 200th ODI for England, with the experienced wicketkeeper-batter continuing to play a vital role in the middle order alongside Sam Curran.
England have also gone with a spin-heavy attack featuring Will Jacks, Liam Dawson and veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid. Jofra Archer makes his return to the ODI setup after missing England’s previous 50-over assignments and will share the new-ball duties with Josh Tongue, while Gus Atkinson misses out on a place in the XI.
India begin ODI campaign with experienced stars back in the squad
India head into the series with renewed confidence following the return of senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the ODI setup after missing the recent T20I series. Jasprit Bumrah also returns to strengthen the pace attack, giving the visitors a full-strength look for the opening contest.
Led by Gill, India will aim to continue their impressive record against England in bilateral ODI cricket. The visitors have won each of the last three ODI series between the two sides and will look to extend that run against a home team eager to make a strong start to their own campaign.
England Playing XI for 1st ODI vs India: Jacob Bethell, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, Josh Tongue, Adil Rashid.
