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The first India vs England ODI saw India kick off their three-match series with a confident 4-wicket win in Nagpur, setting a positive tone for their preparations ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While the victory itself was sweet, the performance of India’s middle order, particularly Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Axar Patel, offered the most encouraging signs.
England, after winning the toss, opted to bat first on a surface that promised assistance to spinners. However, their innings never truly gained momentum, eventually folding for a modest 248 in 47.4 overs.
India vs England ODI: A Fight for Momentum
England’s innings began brightly, with openers Phil Salt and Ben Duckett racing to a quickfire 75-run partnership. Salt, in particular, was aggressive. However, a mix-up between Salt and Duckett resulted in a calamitous run-out, ending Salt’s blistering innings of 43 off just 26 balls. This triggered a collapse, with England losing three wickets in quick succession.
England’s innings then became a rebuilding exercise, led by captain Jos Buttler and Joe Root. Both reached half-centuries, but failed to capitalize, as India’s bowlers tightened the screws. Ravindra Jadeja was particularly effective, claiming three crucial wickets, while debutant Harshit Rana also chipped in with three wickets.
India vs England ODI: India's Middle Order Takes Charge
Chasing a target of 249, India’s innings began cautiously. Openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal fell cheaply, leaving India at a precarious position. However, Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer then combined for a blistering 94-run partnership off just 64 balls, wresting the momentum back in India’s favor. Iyer, in particular, was aggressive.
After Iyer’s dismissal for a quickfire 59, Axar Patel joined Gill, and the duo continued the assault. They added 108 runs off 107 balls, further denting England’s hopes. Gill fell just short of a century, dismissed for 87, but Axar continued his impressive form, racing to his third ODI half-century before falling for 52.
Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya then guided India to victory with a calm and composed partnership. India reached the target with four wickets to spare, sending a strong message to their Champions Trophy rivals after a dominant performance in this India vs England ODI match.
Key talking points in this India vs England ODI
- Shubman Gill’s Anchoring Knock: Shubman Gill’s composed 87 anchored India’s chase. He adapted well to the match situation and forged crucial partnerships with Iyer and Axar Patel.
- Shreyas Iyer’s Potential X-Factor: Shreyas Iyer is a game-changer capable of accelerating quickly or rebuilding an innings. His aggressive innings in this match showcased his potential.
- Kohli’s Absence: Virat Kohli missed the match due to a minor knee injury, marking his first injury-related absence from an international match since January 2022.
Road to Champions Trophy After this India vs England ODI
Both India and England are looking to use this series as a tune-up for the Champions Trophy. India is aiming to fine-tune their combinations, test their bench strength, and build momentum ahead of the prestigious tournament. This India vs England ODI certainly gave them valuable insights.
The series will provide valuable insights into the team’s preparedness and help identify any remaining gaps that need to be addressed.
India vs England ODI: Conclusion
India’s victory over England was a positive start to their Champions Trophy preparations. The win highlighted the depth and talent within the Indian squad, as well as their ability to perform under pressure. This India vs England ODI provided a glimpse of what’s to come.
While there are still areas for improvement, the performance of the middle order offers plenty of reasons for optimism as India looks ahead to the challenges that lie ahead. All eyes now turn to Cuttack for the second ODI, where India will aim to seal the series and further solidify their preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025.