Following India's impressive 4-1 series triumph over England in the T20I format, the focus now shifts to the longer white-ball games as both teams prepare to compete in a three-match series ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy commencing later this month. This series presents a crucial opportunity for coaches Gautam Gambhir and Brendon McCullum, both relatively new to international management in this format, to refine their strategies and player combinations, generating considerable interest regarding team selections and potential omissions.

India's lineup appears largely established, with the top four batsmen expected to remain unchanged and only two primary fast bowlers, suggesting that six players in the playing XI are likely to feature throughout the series. However, uncertainties arise in the middle order and the spin bowling contingent, particularly given the five spin options available to Gambhir.

Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh are set to spearhead the pace attack, while the spin department could include any three from Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, and the recently added Varun Chakravarthy. Among these, Kuldeep is anticipated to be a key participant as he returns from injury. 

Gambhir may choose to enhance batting depth by including two all-round spinners, but Varun's recent inclusion in the ODI squad indicates he may also make his ODI debut. Currently, Axar Patel seems to be the frontrunner for the last spot, with his bowling slightly surpassing that of Jadeja at this time.

Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer are expected to maintain their positions in the top four after their strong performances in the World Cup. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya will compete for the remaining two spots. Hardik's dual capabilities as an all-rounder and a third pacer make him an essential player for the team, leading to a contest between the wicket-keepers. Although KL Rahul may feel he has been treated unfairly, Rishabh Pant's ability to accelerate the innings and his left-handed batting style give him an advantage in securing a starting position.

India vs England predicted XI, 1st ODI

Batters: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer

Wicket-keeper: KL Rahul (wk)

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel

Spin bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy

Pace bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami

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