The Indian cricket team is currently engaged in a fierce home ODI series against England as of February 11, 2025. The final match is set on February 12 at Ahmadabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, and the hosts have already secured a 2-0 lead in the three-match series, guaranteeing the series victory. Both teams have found this series to be extremely important, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 quickly approaching. In the first two games, India, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, has dominated and shown off their prowess in both bowling and batting. However, in subcontinental circumstances, Jos Buttler’s England has found it difficult to stay up with the Indian team.
India’s Second ODI Performance
In the February 9 second ODI at Visakhapatnam, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma produced an incredible comeback. After receiving criticism for his inconsistent play in the preceding months, the right-handed opener silenced his critics with an amazing knock of 119 runs off just 90 balls. His brilliantly timed and powerfully stroked innings set the groundwork for India’s dominant total. Middle-order mainstay KL Rahul anchored the innings with a vital 45, while rookie batting wonder Shubman Gill also helped with a well-compiled 78 runs. England was under pressure after India amassed a respectable 326/6 in 50 overs. India’s bowling assault was led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, who quickly destroyed England’s top order. Kuldeep Yadav’s spin magic in the middle overs severely hindered England’s chase, as they were eventually bowled out for 267 in 47.2 overs, giving India a decisive 59-run victory.
The Ben Duckett Declaration and the Battles of England
England’s batting order has not been very effective during the series. Except for Ben Stokes’ heroic 74 in the second ODI, none of their batsmen could withstand India’s lethal bowling attack. England has struggled with middle-order issues and a lack of consistent starting lineups ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy. In a bold statement, England batsman Ben Duckett said he “would accept a 3-0 series defeat to India if it means beating them in the Champions Trophy final.”This demonstrates that England is more concerned with the ICC tournament than with immediate bilateral outcomes.
Preparations for the Champions Trophy and Final ODI
With India having already won the series, the third ODI in Ahmadabad provides an opportunity for both teams to experiment with their lineups before heading into the In 2025, the Champions Trophy will start on February 19. India’s priorities still remain adjusting their team, making sure that important players stay at the top of their game, and selecting the most effective lineup. In the meantime, England will be keen to win the final game and carry some momentum into the international event in order to preserve some pride. Given India’s overall series domination and Rohit Sharma’s recent comeback, the Men in Blue appear ready for the more difficult tasks that lie ahead. India wants a clean sweep, while England wants to avoid a whitewash, therefore the last ODI on February 12 looks to be an entertaining match.
“India leads 2-0 in the ODI series against England, with Rohit Sharma’s stunning 119-run knock sealing the win. The final match is set for February 12 in Ahmadabad”.
