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The much-anticipated ODI series between India and England is set to begin in Nagpur, kicking off an intense three-match battle on February 06. With both teams eyeing preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the series will serve as a key opportunity to fine-tune their combinations. Fans can expect high-octane cricket as twꦜo powerhouse sides lock horns in the 50-over format.
Sanjay Manjrekar names his India XI for the opening clash
Former India cricketer and analyst Sanjay Manjrekar revealed his preferred playing XI for the opening ODI. He made some bold choices, notably sticking with captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as the opening pair while leaving out in-form batter Yashasvi Jaiswal. Manjrekar’s selection indicates his preference for experience at the top order in the higꦆh-stakes serie🦂s.
Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer strengthen the middle order
At No. 3, Manjrekar had no doubts about slotting in Virat Kohli, the pillar of India’s batting lineup. Shreyas Iyer was picked for the No. 4 position, reinforcing stability in the middle order. The major talking point was the selection of Rishabh Pant over KL Rahul for the wicketkeeper’s role. Manjrekar justified his decision by highlighting Pant’s explos♏ive batting and the need to ♕give him game time ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Dynamic all-rounders featuring Hardik Pandya
The all-rounders’ department saw the inclusion of Hardik Pandya at No. 6, providing balance with his power-hitting and seam bowling. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were also named, offering💃 spin-bowling options alongside their ability to contribute crucial runs in the lower middle order.
Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025: Pitch Report for the 1st ODI, VCA S🥂t𓂃adium ODI Stats and Records
Bowling attack sees no place for Varun Chakravarthy
In the bowling unit, Manjrekar opted for left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav as the only specialist spinner, sidelining Varun Chakravarthy, whose selection in the squad was linked to Champions Trophy preparations. The pace attack featured experienced campaigner Mohammed Shami alongside young left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. Though Harshit Rana is part of the squad, Manjrekar believes h🍎e is unlikely to feature in the first 🧸ODI.
Sanjay Manjrekar’s India XI for the first ODI against England
Rohit Sharma, Shubman🐈 Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed S🅷hami, Arshdeep Singh
