The cricketing giants, India and England, are set to clash in the 2nd ODI at the historic Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, today, February 9, 2025. With India leading the three-match series 1-0, England will be desperate to level the series, making this a must-watch encounter! Can India seal the series, or will England make a roaring comeback? Let’s dive into the details!
Match Details
- Venue: Barabati Stadium, Cuttack
- Time: 1:30 PM IST (Toss at 1:00 PM)
- Live on: Star Sports, Disney+ Hotstar
India’s Momentum & Kohli’s Comeback 🇮🇳
India displayed a dominant performance in the first ODI, comfortably chasing down England’s 248-run target in just 38.4 overs. Shubman Gill played a sensational 87-run knock, while Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel chipped in with valuable contributions.
The biggest boost for India today is the return of Virat Kohli, who missed the first match due to a knee injury. His comeback will add more depth to an already strong Indian batting lineup. However, his inclusion means the team management has a tough call to make—Who will be dropped? Will Shreyas Iyer retain his spot, or will young Yashasvi Jaiswal sit out?
England’s Struggle & Their Road to Redemption 🇬🇧
England, on the other hand, has been struggling with middle-order collapses and inconsistent bowling. Their batting heavily relies on Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, and Joe Root, who need to step up against a fierce Indian attack.
The biggest challenge for England is tackling India’s lethal spin duo—Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja—who created havoc in the previous game. With their backs against the wall, can England find their rhythm and fight back?
Probable Playing XIs
India’s Predicted XI:
- Rohit Sharma (C) 🏏
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer / Yashasvi Jaiswal (Tough choice!)
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Harshit Rana (Exciting young pacer!)
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
England’s Predicted XI:
- Ben Duckett
- Philip Salt (WK)
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jos Buttler (C)
- Liam Livingstone
- Jacob Bethell
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
- Saqib Mahmood
Pitch & Weather Report
The Barabati Stadium pitch is known for assisting both pacers and spinners. While early swing is expected for fast bowlers, spinners will dominate as the match progresses. A score of 260+ would be a strong total on this surface.
Weather Update: Clear skies with no rain interruptions expected! Perfect conditions for a thrilling game.
India vs England 3rd ODI: Series Decider Set for Ahmedabad
Key Battles to Watch Out For!
Virat Kohli vs Jofra Archer – Can Archer unsettle Kohli with his raw pace?
Kuldeep Yadav vs Jos Buttler – Will the England skipper finally crack the mystery spin?
Rohit Sharma vs Adil Rashid – Can Rohit dominate the leg-spinner or fall into his trap?
Final Verdict: India to Clinch the Series or England’s Comeback?
With India looking confident and England desperate to bounce back, this match promises to be a blockbuster. The return of Virat Kohli makes India even more formidable, but if England’s middle order fires, they can turn the tables!
Who do you think will win today’s game? Drop your predictions in the comments!
