The stage is set for the highly anticipated India vs England 2nd ODI on February 9, 2025, at the iconic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. After a solid performance in the first ODI in Nagpur, the Indian cricket team is preparing for the second match with one key change expected—Virat Kohli’s return to the playing XI after missing the opening match due to a sore right knee.
In this article, we break down the latest updates, team selections, and key player insights for the upcoming ODI. Will Shreyas Iyer or Yashasvi Jaiswal be left out for Virat Kohli? Who will retain their spot in the XI? Read on to find out all the essential details and India’s predicted playing XI for the second ODI.
Virat Kohli’s Likely Return to the Playing XI
Virat Kohli, who was sidelined for the first ODI against England due to a knee injury, is expected to make his comeback in Cuttack. His return is a major boost for the Indian team, especially considering his pivotal role in India’s middle order.
In the absence of Kohli, Shreyas Iyer stepped up and delivered with a crucial performance in the first ODI, but Kohli’s return will inevitably lead to a shake-up in the batting order.
Shreyas Iyer’s Revelation: Insight into India’s Squad Strategy
In an interesting revelation, Shreyas Iyer shared that he wasn’t initially in the playing XI for the first ODI. Iyer’s inclusion was only made possible after Kohli’s injury, which raised questions about the team’s selection strategy.
Furthermore, Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was expected to make his ODI debut, missed out, with Iyer filling the spot. The prospect of a potential debut for Jaiswal in the second ODI has sparked discussions, but Kohli’s return leaves Iyer or Jaiswal in a delicate position.
India’s Top Order in Focus
With Kohli’s return, the top-order combination of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli will be one of the main talking points. It is likely that either Yashasvi Jaiswal or Shreyas Iyer will sit out to accommodate Kohli. Jaiswal, with his left-handed batting, would provide a balanced combination with Rohit at the top. However, Iyer’s consistency at No. 4 in ODIs over the past few years could also make him a valuable asset for the team.
As per the current scenario, one of these two batsmen is likely to make way for Kohli. Shubman Gill, who is in fantastic form, will continue to bat at No. 3.
Shubman Gill and KL Rahul: Key Performers in the First ODI
Following India’s win over England in the first ODI, Shubman Gill made it clear that there is no reason to worry about Kohli’s injury. Gill, who has been in sensational form, is expected to play a pivotal role at No. 3. Additionally, KL Rahul, who kept wickets in the absence of Rishabh Pant, will continue in his role as wicketkeeper-batter in the second ODI.
India’s Bowling Attack: No Changes Expected
In contrast to the batting shuffle, the bowling department is likely to remain unchanged. India’s bowlers did a commendable job in the first ODI, with Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Shami all putting in solid performances. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel also contributed effectively, ensuring the team’s balance in all departments.
Varun Chakravarthy may not make his debut in Cuttack, as the existing bowlers have shown good form. However, with India having an impressive spin attack, any change in the bowling unit will be closely watched.
India’s Predicted Playing XI for 2nd ODI
Here is India’s likely playing XI for the 2nd ODI against England at the Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, on February 9, 2025:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal / Shreyas Iyer
- Virat Kohli
- Shubman Gill
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Harshit Rana
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
What to Expect in the 2nd ODI: India’s Strategy
India’s strategy in the 2nd ODI will likely revolve around maintaining consistency with their winning combination, especially in the bowling department. The inclusion of Virat Kohli will strengthen the batting, and the team will aim to build on the momentum from their first ODI win.
Rohit Sharma will be keen on setting a strong platform with Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, followed by a stable middle-order, featuring Iyer or Jaiswal, and finishers like KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, and Axar Patel. India will also rely on their bowling attack, featuring spinners and pacers, to keep England on the back foot.
Conclusion: India Poised for Another Strong Performance
With Virat Kohli expected to return to the playing XI, India will be confident heading into the second ODI against England in Cuttack. The competition for spots in the team—especially with the potential changes in the batting order—adds intrigue to the match. With a solid all-around squad and the right blend of experience and youth, India is looking to make a statement in the ODI series ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Stay tuned for more updates on the India vs England 2nd ODI and follow live match coverage to catch all the action from Cuttack on February 9, 2025.
