Top 3 Bowlers Likely to Be Leading Wicket-Takers in IND vs ENG 1st ODI in Nagpur
The India vs England ODI series is finally here! Both teams are getting ready for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. After India’s strong 4-1 win in the T20I series, the team aims to keep their momentum in the 50-over format.
The first ODI is on February 6 at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. Conditions will help both spinners and pacers during the match. Here are three bowlers who may be the top wicket-takers in the opening game.
1) Arshdeep Singh (India)
Arshdeep Singh is in great form in white-ball cricket. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he took 20 wickets in only seven matches.
Arshdeep Singh’s ODI Stats:
- Matches: 8
- Wickets: 12
- Economy : 5.05
- Bowling Average: 24.08
Arshdeep, a left-arm pacer, swings the ball well early on. He is also very effective with yorkers in the death overs. His left-arm pace could be key in limiting England’s batting lineup.
2) Jofra Archer (England)
Jofra Archer’s return is a major boost for England’s pace attack. The express pacer is famous for his speed, accuracy, and deadly short balls. These can trouble the Indian batters.
Jofra Archer’s ODI Stats:
- Matches: 27
- Wickets: 47
- Economy : 5.00
- Bowling Average: 25.12
Archer can create extra bounce and movement, especially at night. This makes him a big threat. His skills in powerplay and death overs make him a top candidate for the most wickets in Nagpur.
3) Kuldeep Yadav (India)
Kuldeep Yadav will play a key role in India’s bowling. His ODI record is strong, and England has trouble with spin. The left-arm wrist-spinner last played in the 2024 New Zealand Test series. He is eager to make an impact in limited-overs cricket.
Kuldeep Yadav’s ODI Stats:
- Matches: 106
- Wickets: 172
- Economy : 4.99
- Bowling Average: 26.00
The Nagpur pitch tends to assist spinners as the match progresses. If the surface dries and cracks appear, Kuldeep’s variations might change the game. This is especially true in the second innings.