England won the toss and chose to bat against India in the opening One-Day International at Edgbaston, while Jasprit Bumrah returned to India’s playing XI after being rested. His comeback strengthens India’s bowling attack ahead of an important three-match series. The contest also marks Virat Kohli’s return for what could be his final ODI series in England.
Bumrah missed India’s recent 4-0 T20 series sweep against England as team management managed his workload. Captain Shubman Gill said India would have preferred to bowl first but viewed the series as vital preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. He added that the conditions would help the team test different combinations and provide opportunities to players with limited ODI experience.
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Gill also recalled his memorable performances at Edgbaston, where he produced record-breaking innings during last year’s Test match. He expressed confidence about building on those performances in the ODI format. Kohli, who has retired from Test and T20 international cricket, retained his place in the side as India looked to begin the series strongly.
England captain Harry Brook said his side preferred batting first and hoped the surface would offer assistance to bowlers later in the match. Before play, England celebrated Jos Buttler’s 200th ODI appearance with a special cap presentation by former World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan. Only Morgan has played more One-Day Internationals for England than Buttler.
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The three-match ODI series provides both teams with valuable preparation ahead of major international tournaments. India fielded a strong lineup featuring Rohit Sharma, Kohli, Gill, KL Rahul, and Bumrah, while England relied on experienced players including Joe Root, Buttler, Jofra Archer, and Adil Rashid to secure a winning start.