KKN Gurugram Desk | Team India began their three-match ODI series against England with a commanding four-wicket victory in the first ODI at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. Despite missing the game due to a knee injury, Virat Kohli was seen enjoying India’s triumph alongside Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja.

Kohli’s Enthusiasm Despite Not Playing

Though Kohli was not part of the playing XI, his excitement was evident as he joined Pandya and Jadeja in post-match celebrations. The 36-year-old batting legend, ruled out due to a right knee issue, did not let his absence dampen his spirits.

As India took a 1-0 lead in the series, the camaraderie between Kohli, Pandya, and Jadeja reminded fans of the fun-loving moments often seen among young Indian players. Their playful interactions even led to Rohit Sharma’s humorous remark calling them “garden me ghoomne waale ladke”.

India’s Strong Start to 2025 Champions Trophy Preparations

With the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy on the horizon, India has started their preparations on a positive note. The first ODI showcased a balanced team effort, highlighting India’s batting depth and bowling strength.

Watch: Virat Kohli Enjoys the Win with Pandya and Jadeja

After the match, Kohli was seen sharing a funny moment with Pandya and Jadeja, as the duo walked back unbeaten after securing India’s victory. The moment quickly went viral, with fans appreciating Kohli’s enthusiasm despite being sidelined.

Shubman Gill Leads India’s Chase in Kohli’s Absence

While India missed Kohli in the batting lineup, newly-appointed vice-captain Shubman Gill stepped up to lead the chase with a well-constructed 87 off 96 balls.

After losing two early wickets at 19/2 while chasing 249, Gill stabilized the innings with two crucial partnerships:

• With Shreyas Iyer (59) – A solid middle-order stand that revived India’s chase.
• With Axar Patel (52) – A vital lower-order partnership that sealed the win with 11.2 overs to spare.

Despite England’s early breakthroughs, India’s batting depth proved decisive. The team is now hopeful for Kohli’s quick recovery, as his presence could further strengthen the batting order in the upcoming second ODI.

Who Will Kohli Replace in the Playing XI?

While Kohli’s return is anticipated, an interesting selection dilemma awaits the team. Shreyas Iyer, after his impressive 59-run knock, revealed that he played the first ODI only because Kohli was ruled out.

This revelation sparked discussions among experts and fans, raising questions about who Kohli will replace in the second ODI. Given Iyer’s crucial contribution, dropping him might not be an easy decision for the team management.

Harshit Rana’s Dream ODI Debut

India’s bowling attack laid the foundation for the victory by restricting England to a modest 248 runs. The standout performance came from debutant pacer Harshit Rana, who had a memorable start to his ODI career.

Rana’s spell included three key wickets:

• Ben Duckett – Dismissed early, setting the tone for India’s bowlers.
• Harry Brook – A crucial wicket that broke England’s momentum.
• Liam Livingstone – Cleaned up, preventing a late comeback from England.

His impressive performance on debut showcased his ability to trouble world-class batters under pressure.

Ravindra Jadeja’s All-Round Brilliance

Among India’s bowlers, Ravindra Jadeja was the most effective, dismantling England’s middle order with figures of 3/26 in nine overs. His disciplined bowling ensured that England couldn’t accelerate in the later overs.

Other key bowling contributions included:

• Mohammed Shami – Returning to ODIs, he dismissed Brydon Carse.
• Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav – Both picked up a wicket each, controlling England’s run flow.

India’s bowling dominance ensured that England could only post a below-par total, which the hosts chased comfortably.

India’s Focus Shifts to the Second ODI

With momentum on their side, Team India will now look to seal the series in the second ODI. However, Kohli’s fitness status remains a major talking point. If he is cleared to play, India will need to decide who makes way for his return.

What’s Next for Team India?

1. Kohli’s Availability: Will he be fit for the second ODI? If yes, who will be dropped?
2. Shubman Gill’s Form: Can he continue to lead from the front?
3. Harshit Rana’s Performance: Will the young pacer get another opportunity after his dream debut?
4. England’s Comeback Plans: How will England respond after a disappointing loss?

India’s dominant win in the first ODI has given them a strong start in the series. Despite Virat Kohli’s absence, the team displayed solid batting depth and an efficient bowling attack.

As India prepares for the second ODI, fans eagerly await updates on Kohli’s fitness and potential changes in the playing XI. With momentum on their side, the hosts will look to secure the series win and continue their strong preparations for the 2025 Champions Trophy.