IND vs ENG: The cricketing world is set to witness an enthralling battle as India takes on England in the first ODI at Vidarbha Stadium, Nagpur on February 6, 2025.
This match is not just another contest but a significant marker on India’s road to the Champions Trophy 2025, where they will start their campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20th.
Coming off a convincing 4-1 T20I series win against England, India looks to carry forward their momentum into the 50-over format.
IND vs ENG: 3 batters from both sides who could single-handedly turn the game into a spectacle.
Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, known affectionately as the ‘Hitman’, has a record that speaks volumes of his capability to dominate any bowling attack.
With 265 ODIs under his belt, Sharma has amassed 10866 runs at an average of 49.16, including 31 centuries and 57 half-centuries.
His highest score of 264 is not just a record but a testament to his ability to play long, punishing innings.
His strike rate of 92.43 belies the destructive power he can unleash once he gets going.
In the context of this match, Sharma’s experience and leadership as the captain will be crucial.
His opening stint could set the tone for India’s innings, especially on a ground where he has scored heavily in the past.
His ability to adapt to different situations, whether it’s building an innings or accelerating at the right moments, makes him a prime candidate to light up Nagpur.
If Sharma gets into his zone, England’s bowlers might find themselves in for a long day, with his boundary-hitting prowess and six-hitting ability likely to be on full display.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, with his unparalleled consistency, has redefined what it means to bat in ODIs.
His record of 13906 runs from 295 matches at an average of 58.18, including 50 centuries and 72 half-centuries, places him among the legends of the game.
His highest score of 183 and a strike rate of 93.54 shows his dual capacity to both accumulate runs and accelerate when needed.
Kohli’s knack for performing in crunch situations, particularly in chases, has earned him the moniker ‘Chase Master’.
For India vs England, Kohli’s role will be pivotal, whether setting or chasing a total.
His experience in handling pressure and his mental fortitude could be the difference-maker.
On a pitch that might assist spinners, Kohli’s prowess against slow bowling will be under the spotlight, potentially dictating the game’s pace.
If he gets going, England will find it tough to curb his scoring, as his ability to switch gears is second to none.
Jos Buttler
From the English side, Jos Buttler is a player who can turn the match on its head with his aggressive batting.
His statistics in ODIs – 5022 runs at an average of 39.54 with a strike rate of 117.11 – highlight his capability to score quickly.
With 11 centuries and 26 fifties, including a high score of 162*, Buttler has shown he can dominate both pace and spin.
His role as a finisher is well-known, but he has also adapted to batting up the order when required, adding versatility to England’s batting.
Buttler’s performance could be crucial for England, especially after their T20I series defeat.
His ability to counter-attack from any situation, combined with his dynamic wicket-keeping, makes him a dual threat.
If England finds themselves under pressure, Buttler’s explosive batting could reignite their innings, turning the game into a close contest. His experience in Indian conditions, particularly his performances in IPL, suggests he could adapt well to the Nagpur pitch.
As India and England gear up for this ODI, these three batters – Sharma, Kohli, and Buttler – are poised to make significant impacts.
Their performances could not only decide the outcome of this match but also set the tone for the series, providing insights into their form and readiness for the upcoming Champions Trophy.
With their skills, experience, and the stakes involved, fans are in for some thrilling cricket.
