India’s Power Players: Kohli and Rohit to Strengthen ODI Squad for England Series
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of India’s most iconic cricketers, are expected to participate in the much-anticipated ODI series against England, beginning February 6, 2025. Their inclusion bolsters India’s lineup as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with both players set to play pivotal roles in the lead-up to the global tournament.
The return of Kohli and Rohit has created a buzz among cricket fans, who eagerly await the impact these seasoned players will have. Known for their experience and consistency in high-pressure games, the duo is expected to make significant contributions, both as leaders and key run-scorers.
Why the England Series Matters for India
The England ODI series is India’s final preparation phase before the Champions Trophy, making it a crucial testing ground for the team’s form and strategy. While team management plans to rotate players to manage workloads, bringing back Kohli and Rohit indicates India’s intent to field a competitive side.
With their remarkable ODI records, both players bring unmatched reliability and composure to the squad. Virat Kohli, often regarded as one of the greatest ODI batters of all time, has a staggering average of over 57 in the format. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is known for his ability to dominate bowling attacks, including his record three double-centuries in ODIs.
Kohli and Rohit’s Role in India’s Preparation
India’s decision to include Kohli and Rohit in the England series reflects their strategic importance in preparing for the Champions Trophy. Known for their ability to perform in high-stakes situations, they bring leadership and stability to the squad, especially with the tournament just around the corner.
Both players have proven their mettle in ICC events over the years, with Kohli being India’s top run-scorer in multiple tournaments and Rohit consistently delivering under pressure. Their inclusion provides an ideal balance of experience and form, making India a formidable force heading into the Champions Trophy.
A Thrilling Start to 2025 Cricket Action
The three-match ODI series against England promises to be an exciting prelude to the Champions Trophy. Fans can expect high-intensity cricket as India tests its full-strength squad against a strong English side. Kohli and Rohit’s presence will undoubtedly add to the excitement, giving India the firepower it needs to fine-tune its plans for the global stage.
January-February 2025 – Home Series Against England:
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 1st T20I | Jan-22 | Kolkata |
| 2nd T20I | Jan-25 | Chennai |
| 3rd T20I | Jan-28 | Rajkot |
| 4th T20I | Jan-31 | Pune |
| 5th T20I | Feb-02 | Mumbai |
| 1st ODI | Feb-06 | Nagpur |
| 2nd ODI | Feb-09 | Cuttack |
| 3rd ODI | Feb-12 | Ahmedabad |
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: ODI Performance Stats :
| Player | Matches Played | Total Runs | Batting Average | Centuries | Half-Centuries | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 295 | 12,898 | 59.33 | 46 | 65 | 183 |
| Rohit Sharma | 265 | 10,866 | 49.16 | 30 | 57 | 264 |
Key Dates to Remember:
- ODI Series Start: February 6, 2025
- ICC Champions Trophy Start: February 19, 2025
With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma leading the charge, India aims to head into the Champions Trophy with momentum and confidence.