India’s quest for a series win against England faces two major hurdles ahead of the second ODI on Sunday. Skipper Rohit Sharma’s extended dry spell with the bat and the selection headache surrounding Virat Kohli’s potential return have thrown a spanner in the works for the team management.
Kohli’s Comeback: A Boost or a Headache?
India’s four-wicket win in Nagpur gave them a 1-0 series lead, but the absence of Kohli due to a “sore right knee” sparked speculation about his fitness. With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, concerns over his match readiness have only grown.
Vice-captain Shubman Gill, however, hinted at Kohli’s return for the second ODI, which will be played at the very ground where he hammered a match-winning 85 against the West Indies in 2019. The star batter also traveled to Cuttack with his teammates, looking calm and composed—an encouraging sign for Indian fans.
But Kohli’s availability presents a selection dilemma. Shreyas Iyer, who was drafted in as a last-minute replacement in Nagpur, seized the opportunity with a blistering 36-ball 59. Leaving him out after such an impactful knock seems almost unreasonable.
Who Makes Way for Kohli?
If past selections are any indication, Kohli is expected to slot back into the XI. But at whose expense? The logical choice might be Shreyas Iyer, but his recent performance makes it difficult to drop him.
This puts Yashasvi Jaiswal in the firing line. The young left-hander had an underwhelming outing in the first ODI, and with Gill set to return as Rohit’s opening partner, Jaiswal could be the one making way for Kohli. The Indian team management, led by Gautam Gambhir, has shown a preference for a left-right batting combination, adding another layer of complexity to the decision.
One thing is certain—if Kohli plays, someone will have to sit out. And that choice won’t be an easy one.
Rohit Sharma’s Form: A Cause for Concern
While the spotlight remains on Kohli’s selection, India’s captain Rohit Sharma is facing his own battle. His recent form has been anything but inspiring, raising concerns ahead of the Champions Trophy.
His struggles extend beyond just the numbers. Rohit has looked out of rhythm, failing to convert starts into substantial scores. For a team aiming to solidify its batting unit, a misfiring captain isn’t ideal.
- Rohit’s last 10 ODI innings have yielded just 265 runs at an average of 26.5.
- He hasn’t scored a century in over a year.
- His strike rate has dipped significantly, putting additional pressure on the middle order.
With Kohli potentially returning, the focus on Rohit’s batting woes could intensify. A big score in Cuttack could be just what he needs to silence his critics.
Kohli’s Form: Runs Needed, Confidence Required
While Kohli’s return is expected, his form remains a concern. The veteran batter hasn’t been at his best in recent months, particularly during the Australia tour, where he repeatedly edged deliveries behind the stumps.
Even in domestic cricket, things haven’t gone his way. Playing for Delhi in the Ranji Trophy, he managed just six runs before being clean bowled by Railways’ Himanshu Sangwan. A poor show in the second ODI could further dent his confidence heading into the Champions Trophy.
But history favors Kohli in Cuttack. His last ODI knock here—a fluent 85—helped India clinch a win against the West Indies. If there’s ever a time for him to rediscover his touch, it’s now.
England’s Challenge and Match Details
While India deals with internal concerns, England will be looking to bounce back from their Nagpur defeat. The visitors have a formidable batting lineup, but their bowling attack, particularly the spinners, struggled against India’s middle order in the first game.
Key factors to watch out for:
- England’s approach against India’s spinners, who controlled the middle overs in Nagpur.
- The effectiveness of India’s pace attack, which delivered in the first ODI.
- Whether Rohit Sharma can finally find his rhythm at the top.
The second ODI starts at 1:30 PM IST in Cuttack, and all eyes will be on the team sheet. Will Kohli return? If he does, who misses out? And can Rohit Sharma end his barren run?
The answers will unfold on Sunday.
