India will start their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup by playing against England in a three-match series at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Tuesday. The return of key senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah is expected to bolster the Indian team after a challenging T20I series. The focus now shifts from the shortest format to the ODI format, crucial for the upcoming 15 months.
The spotlight is on the comeback of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah, who are vital components of India’s ODI squad. Their presence brings back experience to the team and provides captain Shubman Gill with a nearly full-strength squad as they gear up for the journey to South Africa. India’s batting lineup is set to feature the formidable duo of Rohit and Gill at the top, boasting an impressive partnership average of 60.9 in ODIs.
Virat Kohli is on the brink of significant milestones, with his 300th ODI innings approaching and the possibility of surpassing 15,000 ODI runs with a good series. His recent form has been exceptional, averaging a remarkable 123 in his last seven ODI innings since 2025. KL Rahul is anticipated to handle wicketkeeping duties along with his role in the middle order, while Shreyas Iyer is set to reclaim his No. 4 position.
India’s bowling attack receives a boost with the return of Jasprit Bumrah, who will lead the pace unit alongside Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and Gurnur Brar. The team will also rely on Kuldeep Yadav to deliver, as he aims to become the fourth Indian spinner to reach 200 ODI wickets.
