Nagpur, February 7, 2025 – India kicked off the three-match One Day International (ODI) series against England with a well-earned four-wicket victory at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. This win puts India ahead 1-0, providing them with momentum for the upcoming encounters.
England’s Innings – Salt and Buttler Lead the Charge
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, England sought to capitalize on a pitch that initially favored seamers. Openers Phil Salt and Jonny Bairstow provided a promising start, with Salt showcasing an aggressive intent. However, Bairstow’s stay was short-lived as he was dismissed for 18 by a sharp delivery from Mohammad Siraj. Phil Salt played a key role in stabilizing the innings, crafting a well-compiled 62 off 68 balls, featuring eight boundaries. His stroke-play, particularly through the off-side, highlighted his skill against the Indian spinners. Skipper Jos Buttler took charge after Salt’s dismissal, playing a composed knock of 55 off 73 balls. His innings proved vital in steadying the ship after England’s middle order faltered. The rest of the English lineup, however, struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Ben Stokes, making his return to ODIs, looked rusty and managed just 16 runs. Harry Brook (21) and Liam Livingstone (27) failed to convert their starts into substantial contributions, leaving England unable to build a dominant total.
India’s Bowling – Jadeja and Rana Shine
India’s bowlers executed their plans with precision, preventing England from posting a formidable score. Ravindra Jadeja emerged as the standout performer, claiming 3/42 in his 10-over spell. His tactical variations and turn on the dry surface caused trouble for the English batsmen, particularly in the middle overs. Emerging fast bowler Harshit Rana, in just his second ODI appearance, impressed with his ability to extract bounce and execute well-directed slower balls. He took 3/47, including the crucial wickets of Salt and Livingstone. His disciplined death-over bowling restricted England’s late acceleration. With Siraj and Axar Patel contributing with key wickets, England’s innings came to a halt at 248 in 48.3 overs—a total that seemed competitive but within India’s reach.
India’s Chase – Gill and Iyer Anchor the Innings
Chasing 249, India faced an early setback as Rohit Sharma fell cheaply for 12, undone by Reece Topley’s sharp movement. However, Shubman Gill took control of the innings, displaying class and composure. His 87 off 95 balls, punctuated with fluent drives and confident strokes against spin, laid a strong foundation for India’s chase. Gill found an able partner in Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a solid 59 off 72 balls. The duo forged a 110-run partnership, ensuring that India remained in control despite England’s attempts to break through. England’s pacers, Mark Wood and Top-ley, fought back with timely breakthroughs, leaving India at 198/5 in the 38th over. However, the game remained in India’s grasp thanks to their deep batting lineup.
Axar Patel’s Finishing Touch
With the match still in the balance, Axar Patel stepped up with a match-winning knock, smashing 52 off just 38 balls. His fearless approach, including four boundaries and two sixes, ensured India crossed the finish line comfortably with 68 balls to spare. Despite late efforts from Adil Rashid and Sam Curran, India reached 251/6 in 39.4 overs, sealing a commanding victory. KL Rahul’s unbeaten 21 added further stability in the final stretch.
Key Takeaways from the Match
Shubman Gill’s Stellar Form – The young opener reaffirmed his importance with a well-paced knock.
Jadeja’s All-Round Brilliance – His three wickets and game-changing spell played a crucial role in restricting England.
Harshit Rana’s Emergence – The young pacer showcased his talent with an impressive second ODI performance.
England’s Middle-Order Struggles – Apart from Salt and Buttler, England lacked substantial contributions from their key batters.
What Lies Ahead?
The second ODI is set to take place in Cuttack on February 9, where England will aim to bounce back and level the series. Meanwhile, India will look to secure a series win and continue their strong form ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which kicks off on February 19. With both teams seeking to fine-tune their combinations before the major tournament, the next match promises to be a thrilling contest.
“India takes a 1-0 lead in the ODI series against England with a four-wicket win in Nagpur. Gill, Iyer, and Axar shine as India comfortably chase 249”.
