India and England are gearing up for a high-stakes encounter in the second One Day International (ODI) of their three-match series at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on February 9, 2025. After securing a comfortable four-wicket victory in the opening match in Nagpur, India holds a crucial 1-0 lead. England, on the other hand, will be desperate to bounce back and keep the series alive.
The upcoming contest promises to be an exciting battle, as both teams have plenty to prove. While India will look to build on their momentum and wrap up the series, England must address their shortcomings and find a way to counter India’s dominant performance.
Match Preview
The first ODI at Nagpur saw England opt to bat first, a decision that initially seemed promising. Openers Phil Salt and Ben Duckett provided a steady start, but the middle-order struggled to maintain the tempo. Captain Jos Buttler played a responsible knock, scoring 52 runs, while young all-rounder Jacob Bethell impressed with 51. However, a sudden collapse in the middle overs disrupted their innings.
India’s bowlers capitalized on England’s mistakes, with Ravindra Jadeja and debutant Harshit Rana leading the charge. Jadeja’s figures of 3-26 and Rana’s 3-53 ensured England could only manage a total of 248.
In response, India overcame early jitters to chase down the target comfortably with over 11 overs to spare. Shubman Gill’s composed 87 anchored the innings, while Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel contributed with crucial half-centuries to secure the victory.
With the series now on the line, England needs to step up, particularly in the middle order, while India will aim to maintain their dominant run.
Team News
India
Virat Kohli’s potential return is the major talking point ahead of the second ODI. The star batter missed the first match due to a minor knee issue but is expected to be fit for this contest. His inclusion could strengthen India’s already formidable batting lineup.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, who made his ODI debut in Nagpur, may have to make way for Kohli. Apart from this potential change, the Indian team management is unlikely to tinker with a winning combination.
The bowling unit, spearheaded by Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav, was effective in the first game, and they will once again be key to India’s plans.
England
England’s primary concern remains their fragile middle order. While Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell provided some stability, the likes of Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone failed to convert their starts.
The return of veteran batter Joe Root adds experience to their batting lineup. Root’s ability to handle spin and play long innings will be critical against India’s varied bowling attack.
Jofra Archer and Adil Rashid showed glimpses of their prowess on the bowling front but needed to be more disciplined. England’s pacers will have to find a way to make early inroads into India’s top order if they hope to level the series.
Weather and Pitch Report
The Barabati Stadium in Cuttack has historically been known for its batting-friendly surface, offering good bounce and carry for the batters. The pitch generally aids stroke-making, though spinners could come into play as the match progresses.
Batting first has been advantageous at this venue, as chasing under lights can sometimes be tricky. The toss could play a vital role, with teams likely preferring to set a target rather than chase.
As for the weather, conditions are expected to be ideal for cricket. The forecast suggests hazy sunshine with a temperature around 28°C, ensuring a full match without interruptions.
Probable Playing XI
India
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Harshit Rana
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
England
- Phil Salt
- Ben Duckett
- Joe Root
- Jos Buttler (c & wk)
- Harry Brook
- Jacob Bethell
- Liam Livingstone
- Brydon Carse
- Adil Rashid
- Jofra Archer
- Saqib Mahmood
Key Players to Watch
India
Shubman Gill – The young opener played a match-winning knock in the first ODI, scoring a composed 87 off 96 balls. His ability to anchor the innings while keeping the scoreboard ticking makes him an invaluable asset at the top of the order.
Ravindra Jadeja – The all-rounder’s three-wicket haul in Nagpur turned the game in India’s favor. His experience, ability to bowl tight spells, and finishing capabilities with the bat make him one of the most dangerous players in India’s lineup.
England
Jos Buttler – The England skipper led from the front with a solid 52 in the first game. His aggressive batting can put any bowling attack under pressure, and England will hope for another impactful innings from their captain.
Joe Root – Returning to the ODI squad, Root’s stability and class will be vital for England. His ability to rotate the strike and play spin effectively will be crucial against India’s strong bowling attack.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win?
The Men in Blue confidently head into the second ODI, dominating the first match with both bat and ball. The likely return of Virat Kohli further strengthens their lineup, making them the favourites.
England, however, will be eager to level the series. The inclusion of Joe Root adds experience to their batting, and if their bowlers can find consistency, they can challenge India.
Despite England’s potential, India holds the edge due to their strong batting depth, home advantage, and superior bowling attack. Expect another close battle, but India is more likely to come out on top and seal the series with a win in Cuttack.
