New Delhi: The first match of the 3-match ODI series between India and England will be played on Tuesday, July 14 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The team looks strong with the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, but the biggest challenge before captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir is to choose the right combination. Unlike T20, there is not much fight for a place in ODI, yet there is a dilemma regarding Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar.

Kohli’s return confirmed, shock for Ishan Kishan!   

Opening can be done by Rohit Sharma and Shubhman Gill. Virat Kohli is certain to play at number 3. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who opened in the Afghanistan series, is not in the team this time. In the middle order, Shreyas Iyer can be seen at number-4 and KL Rahul at number-5.

Rahul and Shreyas are considered India’s most reliable batsmen in ODIs. However, after Gambhir became the coach, Rahul’s number has changed several times, so it will be interesting to see where he is played this time too. Due to Virat’s return, Ishan Kishan may have to sit out the first ODI.

Bowling became stronger due to Bumrah’s return   

Considering the lack of a left handed batsman in the team, Akshar Patel may get a chance at number 5 or 6. Akshar will also provide balance as an all-rounder. In fast bowling, Jasprit Bumrah will play ODI for the first time after the 2023 World Cup final. The trio of Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna along with him is almost certain. These three will be India’s biggest strength in England’s swing conditions.

Biggest problem: Kuldeep or Washington?   

The biggest question in the spin department is who to play between Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar. If there is turn in the pitch then Kuldeep may get preference. Whereas if batting depth is needed then Washington Sundar may get a chance. Shivam Dubey can also be played in the role of finisher and fourth fast bowler.

India’s probable playing-11   

Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar/Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dubey, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna.

England’s probable playing-11  

Jacob Bethel, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacques, Joffra Archer, Liam Dawson, Josh Tong and Adil Rashid.