India vs England 1st ODI: Predicted Playing XIs, Key Battles, and Debut Possibilities

The highly anticipated 1st ODI between India and England will take place on February 6, 2025, in Nagpur, marking the start of a crucial three-match series. After India’s dominant 4-1 victory in the T20I series, the focus now shifts to the 50-over format. With ICC Champions Trophy 2025 looming on the horizon, this ODI series presents the perfect opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their combinations ahead of the prestigious event in Pakistan and Dubai.

In this article, we take a detailed look at the India vs England predicted playing XIs, discuss key player matchups, and explore whether Varun Chakravarthy will make his much-anticipated ODI debut.

India vs England 1st ODI: Key Focus Areas

1. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s Return to Form

India’s ODI team will see the much-awaited return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom have faced challenges with form since the 2023 ICC World Cup. Despite their impressive performances during the World Cup, both players have struggled in recent outings, and this series will be vital for them to regain their rhythm. Kohli, who finished as the Player of the Series in the World Cup with 765 runs, and Sharma, who contributed with 597 runs, will look to return to their best in the 50-over format.

While Shubman Gill is expected to partner Rohit at the top, the middle-order will revolve around Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, who has been in great domestic form.

2. KL Rahul vs Rishabh Pant: Who Will Keep Wickets?

The biggest selection dilemma for India is the middle-order wicketkeeping slot. KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant will be competing for the wicketkeeping duties, with Rahul being the more dependable option in recent years. However, Pant offers a left-handed option and attacking flair, which could bring balance to a predominantly right-handed top-order.

If India opts for both players, they may have to sacrifice Shreyas Iyer, who has been pivotal at No. 4 in recent times. This decision will be one of the most crucial ones for the Indian think tank.

3. Mohammed Shami Leads the Bowling Attack

With Jasprit Bumrah missing from the squad, Mohammed Shami will spearhead India’s bowling attack. The experienced pacer has consistently delivered match-winning performances and will need to lead from the front. Alongside him, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya will form the seam bowling trio, with Pandya also contributing with the bat.

4. Will Varun Chakravarthy Make His ODI Debut?

A potential debut for Varun Chakravarthy could be one of the highlights of the series. The Tamil Nadu spinner has impressed in T20Is and domestic cricket with his mystery spin, and his inclusion in the ODI side could add another dimension to India’s bowling attack. With Kuldeep Yadav recovering from injury, it will be interesting to see whether India opts for Chakravarthy alongside Jadeja or sticks to the tried and tested duo of Axar Patel and Washington Sundar.

England’s Predicted Playing XI

England, led by Jos Buttler, will bring their own strengths to the table. Their lineup is packed with power-hitters and world-class all-rounders. Here’s a look at the predicted playing XI for England in the 1st ODI:

Ben Duckett
Phil Salt (WK)
Joe Root
Harry Brook
Jos Buttler (C)
Liam Livingstone
Jamie Overton
Brydon Carse
Jofra Archer
Adil Rashid
Mark Wood

Key Player Battles in the 1st ODI

KL Rahul vs Adil Rashid: Rahul’s solidity in the middle order could face a challenge from England’s top leg-spinner, Adil Rashid, who has been a thorn for Indian batters in the past. Rahul’s ability to tackle Rashid’s variations will be critical to India’s progress.
Virat Kohli vs Jofra Archer: Jofra Archer is a key weapon for England, capable of troubling top-order batters with his pace and bounce. Kohli, with his ability to adapt, will look to counter Archer’s challenge and anchor India’s innings.
Shubman Gill vs Mark Wood: Mark Wood is known for his pace, and Shubman Gill, with his technical proficiency, will have to see off the early burst from Wood to ensure India gets off to a strong start.