As India approaches the concluding phase of their preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025, the team has encountered an injury challenge with Virat Kohli being ruled out of the first ODI against England. Indian captain Rohit Sharma announced at the toss that Kohli would be sidelined due to a "knee injury."

In light of this development, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Harshit Rana have been awarded their first ODI caps, with Jaiswal stepping in for Kohli in the playing eleven. Following the toss, the BCCI confirmed Kohli's absence, attributing it to a "sore right knee."

Both Jaiswal and Rana have previously participated in Test and T20I matches, and their inclusion in the ODI squad is part of the team's strategy to refine its composition ahead of the prestigious tournament scheduled for later this month.

Jaiswal, a key player in both Test and T20I formats, has received his first ODI call-up for the series against England. His promotion to the ODI team was anticipated due to his dynamic and reliable performances in the other formats.

On the other hand, Harshit Rana, who recently showcased his skills in the T20I series against England, has earned his ODI debut as India evaluates their bowling options in preparation for the crucial Champions Trophy.

Indian star's eye returns to form

Skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have faced challenges in their performance in red-ball cricket in recent months. While Kohli will not participate in the first ODI, Rohit aims to regain his form in Nagpur.

These two veterans continue to be essential to India's batting order in ODIs. They were the top run-scorers during the 2023 World Cup, with Kohli scoring 765 runs and Rohit adding 597. Since that tournament, their only appearances have been in a three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, which India lost; Rohit managed to score two half-centuries, whereas Kohli struggled to make a notable contribution.

With the Champions Trophy approaching, this series against England represents India's sole opportunity for preparation. Scheduled to take place in Pakistan and Dubai starting February 19, this competition could be pivotal for both Rohit and Kohli, who have already announced their retirement from T20 internationals.

Read Also: Taylor Swift’s Super Bowl Plan: Keep It Low-Key While Supporting Travis Kelce

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!