England have won the toss and opted to bowl first against Rohit Sharma’s India in the third and final ODI at the Narendra Modi S?tadium on February 12.

Changes in Team India’s squad

This match carries extra significance as it marks India’s first ODI appearance in Ahmedabad since the ODI World Cup 2023 final, adding a historical touch to the contest. With the series already secured at 2-0, India aim to complete a clean sweep, while England seeks a consolation victory. Both teams have made tactical adjustments for this decider – England opted for a solitary change, bringing in Tom Banton in place of Jamie Overton to strengthen their batting.

Meanwhile, India made three alterations, introducing Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar and Arshdeep Singh into the lineup, while Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami and Varun Chakravarthy were given a rest. These changes set the stage for an intriguing ?battle as both sides look to end the seri?es on a strong note.

Also READ: Explained: Why Yashasvi Jaiswal ha?s been dropped from the 15-man India squad for Champions? Trophy 2025?

Reason behind Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Varun Chakravarthy absence

Despite losing the toss, India’s skipper Rohit Sharma expressed his preference for batting first in this crucial encounter. Rohit also reflected on his recen??t performances, emphasizing the importance of his contribution and the changes. As the series stands level, both teams will be eager to seize the momentum and secure the decisive victory in this highly ant??icipated showdown.

“I wanted to bat first and put runs on the board because we bowled first in the last two games. It was important for us to get a win in the last game. The fielders portrayed themselves well in the last two games, a lot of young blood. We want to continue to do well in the field. (On Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy) They are pretty new in their careers so we want to keep the pressure away from them, let them do their own and they have got a lot of potential. We have made some changes – Jadeja and Shami have been rested, unfortunately Varun has a sore calf. So, Washi, Kuldeep and Arshdeep come into the side,” Rohit said.

UPDATE: Varun Chakaravarthy was unavailable for selection for the 3rd ODI due to a sore right calf. #TeamIndia #INDvENG @IDFCFIRSTBank

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 12, 2025

Also READ: Arjuna Ranatunga backs Virat Kohli amid constant scrutiny over h?is form and future

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Indian captain Rohit Sharma delivered a masterclass in ODI batting, silencing his critics with a sublime century, his 32nd in ODIs, against England in the second ODI in Cuttack on Sunday (February 9). H??is?? innings was a testament to his class, composure, and ability to anchor a chase, as he played a magnificent knock filled with exquisite timing and elegant strokeplay.

Rohit Sharma’s sublime century in India’s series-sealing victory

Leading from the front, Rohit roared back into form and guided India to a comprehensive four-wicket victory, helping the hosts take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. His century, which came off just 76 balls, was a fine blend of patience and aggression, as he dispatched the English bowlers to all parts of the ground. He reached the milestone in emphatic style, stepping down the track and launching Adil Rashid over long-off for a massive six, reaffirming his status as one of India’s most dependable batters. His ?brilliant knock of 119 off 90 deliveries was studded with seven sixes and nine fo??urs, setting the foundation for India’s successful chase.

Rohit’s aggressive approach sets up the chase against England

Opting to bat first, England posted a challenging 304/10 in 49.5 overs, courtesy of crucial contributions from their middle order. Joe Root (69) and Ben Duckett (65) led the charge, while Liam Livingstone (41), Jos Buttler (34) and Harry Brook (31) chipped?? in with handy cameos. Despite wickets falling at regular intervals, England manage??d to cross the 300-run mark, giving their bowlers a solid total to defend. However, India’s aggressive start completely shifted the momentum in the chase.

Also READ: Fans eru??pt as Rohit Sharma lights up Barabati Stadium with a dazzling 32nd centur??y against England in the second ODI

In response, Rohit wasted no time in putting India ahead, launching a brutal assault on the English bowlers from the outset. He raced to his half-century off just 30 balls, stitching together a dominant 136-run opening partnership with Shubman Gill, which put India firmly in the driver’s seat. Gill played a fluent knock of 60 off 52 balls before being dismissed, but Rohit carried on his carnage, maintaining a strong scoring rate and ensuring that India remained ?ahead of the required run rate.

Rohit’s century and key contributions seal the victory

Rohit’s century came in just 76 balls, a knock that perfectly combined powerful hitting with calculated strokeplay. He reached the milestone in spectacular fashion by taking on leg-spinner Rashid, stepping out and launching him over long-off for a six. His dominance over the English attack continued until the 30th over, when Livingstone finally managed to dismiss him for a stunning 119 off 90 balls. At the time of his dismissal, India needed just 85 runs off 122 deliveries, and the middle order ensured there were no hiccups in the chase. Shreyas Iyer (44) and Axar Patel (41) not out played crucial sup?porting roles, guiding India to victory in 44.3 ?overs.

With this win, India sealed the series 2-0, reaffirming their strength in ODIs and showcasing their ?batting depth. Rohit’s century not only secured the victory but also sent a strong message ahead of upcoming challenges, proving that the Indian skipper remains a force to be reckoned with in international cricket.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

And he's back with a bang! Cannot keep the hitman quiet for long 🔥 cracker of an innings with the bat doing all the talking 💯 @ImRo45 #INDvsENGODI #IndVSEng

— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) February 9, 2025

//twiter.com/DineshKarthik/sta??tus/1888622801030115420

Rohitaaaaaaaa sharamaaaaaaa is back 🇮🇳 🫡 #indvsEng #INDvsENGODI //t.co/NGRMItzJUB

— Yuzvendra Chahal (@yuzi_chahal) February 9, 2025

Consistency, class, and captaincy rolled into one! 💯🔥 #hitman strikes again. #INDvsENG @ImRo45 👌 //t.co/JYR0LTBEnB

— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) February 9, 2025

To chase 300 plus score is that easy ??
Yes when its #TeamIndia
Opening partnership between @ShubmanGill & @ImRo45 have done a trick & than @akshar2026 with @ShreyasIyer15 took to the winning doors.
Loved the century by Hitman#RohitSharma𓃵 #Gill #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/EhpkkdhHN9

— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) February 9, 2025

It’s a big relief for Hitman as well as for his fans. This 💯 before the Champions Trophy should be a massive boost for team India 🇮🇳
Well played Ro 👏👏#RohitSharma #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/k2xQzoPJLc

— Vinay Kumar R (@Vinay_Kumar_R) February 9, 2025

Ro-Hit-Man Sharma. Ro-Super-Hit Sharma 🙌

This is such a good sign for 🇮🇳 #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/J195VXgbO3

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) February 9, 2025

And 𝐇𝐈𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐍 comes clutch?? in a crucial chase! 🔥

Brought up his 3️⃣2️⃣nd ODI 💯, putting 🇮🇳 in a winning position! 💪#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/4cRxZYd0yz

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 9, 2025

💯/💯 batting display, and the series sealed in style! 💥#INDvENG
📸 : BCCI pic.twitter.com/hINHDMLN3U

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 9, 2025

Captain Rohit Sharma wins Player of the match award 👏🏏#Cricket #INDvENG #RohitSharma𓃵 #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/gD0q7n5Qd9

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 9, 2025

Also READ: Top 5 oldest debutants for India in the ODI??s ft. Varun Chakravarthy

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Marnus Labuschagne has established himself as one of Australia’s premier Test batters, known for his solid technique, unshakable concentration, and hunger for big runs. Since making his Test debut in 2018, Labuschagne has been a vital part of Australia’s batting lineup, excelling in both home and away conditions.

His abili??ty to handle pace and spin with equal finesse has made? him one of the top-ranked batters in Test cricket. The Aussie batter recently opened up about the toughest opponents he has faced in international cricket, naming two elite spinners from India and a lethal English pacer.

The spin challenge

Labuschagne admitted that facing India’s spin duo, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, in subcontinental conditions was particul?arly diffi?cult.

“Facing Ashwin in India was quite challenging for me. At the same time, Jadeja was also a bowler against whom I had trouble playing. It was quite difficult to play against Ashwin and Jadeja in India. Both have been one of the most dangerous bowlers for me in India,” said Labuschagne at The Howee Games podcast.

Ashwin, who recently retired from international cricket, finished his Test career with 537 wickets in 106 matches at an average of 24.00, with best figures of 13/140. Meanwhile, Jadeja has taken 323 wickets in 80 Tests at an average of 24.14, with a b??est of 7/42.

Also READ: Rick??y Ponting reveals the toughest bowlers he faced in international cr??icket

A deadly fast bowling threat

Apart from spin, Labuschagne highlighted England’s Jofra Archer as one of the most dangerous fast bowlers in world cr?icket.

“Archer is a very explosive bowler. Apart from speed, his balls also have the right line and length. In my opinion, Archer is one of the most dangerous fast bowlers in the world,” added Labuschagne.

Ar??cher, known for his express pace and precision, has claimed 42 wickets in 13 Tests at an average of 31.04, with best figures of 8/85.

Also READ: Aussie legend ??Ricky Ponting names the Greatest Cricke?ter of All Time

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The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for an intense three-match ODI series against England, scheduled to take place on February 6, 9, and 12 across Nagpur, Cuttack, and Ahmedabad. Following their commanding 4-1 victory in the T20I series, India will shift their focus to the 50-over format as they look to fine-tune their squad and strategies ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. England, too, ?will view this series as a crucial opportunity to build momentum for the marquee tournament lat??er this month.

India’s shift in focus: Experience over youth

With the Champions Trophy looming, India have opted for an experienced squad, omitting several T20I regulars such as Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. This selection approach underscores India’s intent to prioritize seasoned players who have proven their mettle in the 50-over format. Veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli return to bolster the squad, along with key names such as Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant. Their presence will be instrumental in solidifying India’s batting lineup, ensuring stability and ?fir??epower in the middle order.

India’s ODI homecoming: A chance to bounce back

The last time India played an ODI on home soil was the heartbreaking final of the ODI World Cup 2023 against Australia on December 19, 2023, a match that ended in disappointment for the hosts. As they return to 50-over action in front of home crowds, the team will be determined to regain their winning momentum. This series against England provides the perfect opportunity for India to refine their gameplay, rectify past mistakes, and build confidence ahead of the Champions Trophy. With both teams eyeing the bigger prize later this month, this ODI series promises to be a thrilling contest, setting the stage for an action??-packed build-up to the Champions Trophy 2025.

Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025: Here’s how to buy tickets for the first ODI betw??een India and England

India’s top-choice XI for the ODI series against England

1. Rohit Sharma (Captain)

Rohit Sharma is India’s most experience??d opener, known for his ability to provide explosive start to his side. With over 10,000 ODI runs, including three double centuries, he is a key player in home conditions. His captaincy skills add immense value,?? especially against England’s aggressive approach. Rohit’s ability to dominate both pace and spin makes him a crucial top-order batter.

2. Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain)

Gill has emerged as India’s most consistent young opener, blending ??solid technique with fluent stroke play. He boasts an ODI average of over 50, with ??multiple centuries, including a double hundred. His ability to rotate strike and find boundaries ensures stability at the top. Against England’s fast bowlers, his technique will be vital in setting strong foundations.

3. Virat Kohli

Kohli remains India’s batting backbone, excelling under pressure with an outstanding ODI average of over 57. With 50 ODI centuries, he is India’s most reliable chaser and middle-order anchor. His ability to manipulate the field and score freely against both pace and spin makes him indispensable. Playing in home conditions, Kohli will be key in neutralizing England’s aggressive bowling attack.

4. Shreyas Iyer

Iyer provides solidity to the middle order with his ability to dominate spin and accelerate in the middle overs. He has an ODI average of nearly 48, with multiple centuries, showcasing his ability to s??tabilize and attack when needed. His strength against short-pitched bowling will be tested against England’s pacers. A crucial asset, Iyer can counter-attack in high-pressure sit?uations and guide India in tricky chases.

5. KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)

Rahul has reinvented himself as a dependable middle-or??der b??atter and a reliable wicketkeeper in ODIs. He averages over 49, with the ability to shift gears seamlessly, making him perfect for finishing innings. His adaptability in playing both anchoring and attacking roles strengthens India’s batting depth. As a wicketkeeper, his presence also provides India with additional balance in team composition.

6. Hardik Pandya (All-rounder)

Pandya is India’s premier all-rounder, offering power-hitting in the lower order and crucial overs with the ball. He has a st??rike rate above 110 in ODIs, making him a dangerous finisher. His ability to bowl in the middle overs and provide breakthroughs is vital against England’s aggressive batters. As vice-captain, his leadership and all-round c?ontributions make him a key player.

7. Ravindra Jadeja (All-rounder)

Jadeja brings balance to the XI with his all-round sk?ills, excelling as a left-arm spinner and a dependable lower-order batter. He has over 2,500 runs and 200 wickets in ODIs, proving his effectiveness in both departments. His ability to build partnerships and play counter-attacking innings under pressure strengthens India’s lower order. As a bowler, he can exploit turning conditions, keeping England’s batters in check.

8. Kuldeep Yadav (Spinner)

Kuldeep is India’s lead wrist-spinner, known for his wicket-taking ability in the middle overs. He has over 150 ODI wickets at an impressive economy, often breaking crucial partnerships. His variations, including the wrong??’un, make him a constant threat on Indian pitches. Against England’s attacking batters, Kuldeep’s ability to deceive and control the game will be crucial.

9. Mohammed Shami (Pacer)

Shami remains India’s most lethal pacer, particularly with the new ball and in the death overs. With around200 ODI wickets, he has a proven record of delivering under pressure. His ability to swing the ball early and bowl effective yorkers makes him a key wicket-taker. Shami’s experience will be crucial against England’s aggressive top order.

10. Arshdeep Singh (Pacer)

Arshdeep’s left-arm angle and ability to bowl in the powerplay and death overs add variety to India’s pace attack. He has developed into a ??reliable pacer with a knack for picking up crucial wickets. His swing and ability to bowl cutters on Indian pitches will be us?eful against England’s powerful batting lineup. Arshdeep’s presence provides India with an extra edge in pace variation.

11. Harshit Rana (Pacer)

Rana, known for his raw pace and aggress??ion, brings freshness to India’s fast-bowling unit. His ability to extract bounce and deliver sharp short-pitched balls makes him a good asset on Indian pitches. Though new to international cric?ket, his performances in domestic and IPL cricket have showcased his wicket-taking ability. Against England’s aggressive batting, his extra pace could be a game-changer.

Final XI composition

• Top Order: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli
• Middle Order: Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK)
• All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja
• Bowlers: Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana

Also READ: ‘Got message from A??nushka�? R Madhavan recalls the viral AI-generated clip of Cristiano Ronaldo app??lauding Virat Kohli

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