India and England are set to face off in the first match of their three-game ODI series in Nagpur on February 6. The Men in Blue dominated the recently concluded five-match T20I series, securing a convincing 4-1 victory over the Three Lions. However, the ODI series carries greater significance, as it serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19.
Ahead of the series opener, Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma were seen sharing a lighthearted moment at the team hotel. Though the details of their conversation remain unknown, their expressions and body language indicated they were enjoying each other’s company.
India look to tame England in Nagpur
After crushing ERngland in T20I series, Team India will look to carry the winning momentum in the three-match ODI series. The first ODI will be held at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur on Thursday. In a significant squad update, the BCCI has announced the inclusion of spinner Varun Chakaravarthy for the ODI series.
The 33-year-old delivered an exceptional performance in the T20I series, claiming 14 wickets, including a five-wicket haul in Rajkot. His remarkable bowling display earned him the Player of the Series award.
Rohit Sharma on Wednesday played down speculations about his future in international cricket, saying it is irrelevant to talk about his career at a time when he is “focussed” on the three ODIs against England and the Champions Trophy.
With India now competing in ODI cricket, a format in which Rohit has enjoyed a lot of success, the skipper stressed that instead of harping on the past, he is focused on the assignments ahead of him.
He said, “I am looking forward to the challenge, not looking at what has happened in the past. There is no reason for me to look behind too much. It’s important that I focus on what is coming up and what lies ahead for me. Look to try and start this series on a high,”
