ENG vs IND 2026: 3 bowlers to watch in the 1st ODI

The much-awaited three-match ODI series between England and India gets underway at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Tuesday, July 14. After England emerged victorious in the T20I series, both teams will now shift their focus to the 50-over format, where experienced players are set to return to the spotlight.

With conditions in England expected to assist both seamers and spinners at different stages of the game, bowlers could play a defining role in the series opener. While India will be boosted by the return of one of the world’s finest fast bowlers, England possesses an attack capable of troubling any batting lineup.

Here are 3 bowlers who could make an impact in the first ODI:

3. Adil Rashid (England)

Veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid remains one of England’s most reliable white-ball bowlers and will once again be a key weapon in the opening ODI.

The 38-year-old enjoyed another productive T20I series against India, using his variations and control to keep the batters under pressure during the middle overs. His ability to break partnerships and bowl in pressure situations makes him a vital member of England’s bowling attack.

Rashid’s ODI numbers further underline his consistency. In 161 ODIs, he has picked up 242 wickets, making him one of England’s most successful bowlers in the format. With several right-handers in India’s batting order, Rashid will look to make full use of the conditions and provide crucial breakthroughs.

2. Jofra Archer (England)

Jofra Archer enters the ODI series after an impressive performance in the recently concluded T20Is against India. The right-arm pacer claimed seven wickets in four matches while consistently troubling the Indian batters with his express pace and accuracy.

Archer’s biggest strength has always been his ability to generate extra bounce while bowling at high speeds. The conditions at Edgbaston are also expected to suit his style, especially with the new ball.

If he manages to strike early against India’s experienced top order, England could seize control of the contest. His battle against Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is likely to be one of the key match-ups to watch in the series opener.

1. Jasprit Bumrah (India)

All eyes will be on Jasprit Bumrah as the Indian pace spearhead returns to ODI cricket after a long absence. Bumrah last featured in the format during the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final against Australia, making this his first ODI appearance in nearly three years.

India has struggled to produce consistent results in recent months, and Bumrah’s return comes as a massive boost for the visitors. Widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers across formats, the right-armer brings experience, control, and the ability to deliver in every phase of an innings.

Against an aggressive England batting lineup, India’s hopes of making a winning start will largely depend on how much impact Bumrah can create with the ball. If he finds his rhythm early, he could prove to be the difference-maker in the first ODI.