In a commanding display, India secured a four-wicket victory against England in the first One Day International (ODI) held in Nagpur on February 6, 2025. The win grants India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
England's Innings:
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, England's openers, Phil Salt and Ben Duckett, provided a brisk start, amassing 75 runs in under nine overs. Salt's aggressive 43 off 26 balls was cut short by a run-out, leading to a sudden collapse. Debutant Harshit Rana made an immediate impact, dismissing Duckett (32) and Harry Brook (0) in quick succession, leaving England at 77 for 3. Captain Jos Buttler (52) and Jacob Bethell (51) attempted to stabilize the innings with half-centuries, but consistent breakthroughs by India's bowlers, particularly Ravindra Jadeja (3 for 26), restricted England to a total of 248 in 47.4 overs.
India's Chase:
India's pursuit of 249 began on a shaky note, losing openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (15) and captain Rohit Sharma (2) early, courtesy of Jofra Archer and Saqib Mahmood. At 19 for 2, Shreyas Iyer joined Shubman Gill at the crease, and the duo orchestrated a remarkable recovery. Iyer's brisk 59 off 36 balls, featuring consecutive sixes off Archer, and Gill's composed 87 anchored the innings. Following Iyer's departure, Axar Patel contributed a valuable 52, partnering with Gill in a 108-run stand that brought India within reach of the target. Despite a few late wickets, India comfortably reached 251 for 6 in 38.4 overs, clinching the match with 68 balls to spare.
Looking Ahead:
The second ODI is scheduled for February 9 in Cuttack, where India will aim to seal the series, while England will look to bounce back and level the contest.