England vs India 1st ODI: Rohit, Virat Return as India Eye Comeback Against England

India will begin the three-match ODI series against England looking to bounce back after a disappointing T20I tour, with the return of senior stars Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah providing a major boost ahead of the ODI World Cup preparations.

Led by Shubman Gill, India head into the opening ODI at Edgbaston, Birmingham, aiming to regain momentum after failing to register a win during the T20I leg of the tour.

The ODI series carries added significance as India continues to finalise combinations ahead of next year's ICC ODI World Cup.

Rohit, Virat and Bumrah strengthen India

India's batting receives a significant lift with the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Kohli returns after recovering from a hamstring injury and is expected to resume his role at No. 3, while Rohit will once again partner Gill at the top of the order.

Jasprit Bumrah also makes his return to ODI cricket, adding much-needed experience to an Indian bowling attack that struggled during the T20I series.

Ahead of the match, captain Shubman Gill revealed that he and Kohli had discussed team combinations and possible player options for the ODI World Cup.

India continue World Cup preparations

Gill stressed that India is using the ODI series to evaluate players while maintaining a settled core ahead of the World Cup.

The skipper also reiterated his admiration for 50-over cricket, calling the ODI World Cup the most prestigious tournament in the sport.

He also expressed hope that triangular ODI series could make a return to the international calendar.

England aim to continue winning run

England enter the ODI series high on confidence after dominating India in the T20Is.

The hosts have handed a debut to fast bowler Josh Tongue, who joins a strong pace attack featuring Jofra Archer.

England will rely on experienced batters including Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett and Jos Buttler to maintain their momentum.

Injury concerns for India

India will be without all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who continues to recover from injury.

Fast bowler Harshit Rana has also been ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury, leaving India with fewer pace bowling options.

As a result, the visitors may rely on all-rounders like Washington Sundar and Axar Patel to complete the bowling workload.

Pitch report

The Edgbaston surface is expected to favour batters while also offering some assistance to fast bowlers early in the innings.

Rohit Sharma has enjoyed remarkable success at the venue, scoring 447 runs at an average of around 90, making him one of India's key players.

Weather conditions are expected to remain clear throughout the match.

Key Highlights

• India face England in the first ODI at Edgbaston on July 14.
• Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah return to India's ODI squad.
• The series is part of India's preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
• England enter the series after dominating India in the T20Is.
• Josh Tongue is set to make his ODI debut for England.
• India will miss injured Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana.
• Edgbaston is expected to provide a batting-friendly wicket.

FAQs

When is the England vs India 1st ODI?

The first ODI will be played on July 14 at Edgbaston, Birmingham, starting at 3:30 PM IST.

Which players are returning for India?

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah return to India's ODI squad for the series against England.

Why is the ODI series important?

The series serves as an important preparation phase for India's squad ahead of the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Who is making his debut for England?

Fast bowler Josh Tongue is expected to make his ODI debut for England.

Which Indian players are unavailable?

Hardik Pandya is unavailable due to injury, while Harshit Rana has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.

Where can fans watch the England vs India 1st ODI?

The match will be streamed live on JioStar, while television coverage will be available on Sony Sports Network.