Virat Kohli has been included in India's 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, set to begin on July 12 at The Oval. The star batsman returns after being rested for the preceding T20I series, which India won 2-1.
Squad Details and Key Inclusions
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad on Friday, with Rohit Sharma continuing as captain. Alongside Kohli, the squad features Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Suryakumar Yadav in the batting department. Jasprit Bumrah leads the pace attack, supported by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna.
Notably, all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been included despite a minor ankle niggle, while spinner Yuzvendra Chahal returns after being omitted from the T20I series. The squad also includes wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan and all-rounder Axar Patel.
Kohli's Return and Recent Form
Kohli last played international cricket during the World Test Championship final against Australia in June, where he scored 14 and 49. He took a break from the subsequent T20I series to manage his workload. The 34-year-old has a stellar ODI record against England, averaging 51.33 with seven centuries in 35 matches.
"I'm feeling fresh and ready to go," Kohli said in a BCCI video. "The break was necessary to recharge, and I'm looking forward to contributing to the team's success in the ODIs."
Series Schedule and Significance
The three-match ODI series is crucial for both teams as they prepare for the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, which will be held in India later this year. The matches are scheduled for July 12 at The Oval, July 14 at Lord's, and July 17 at Old Trafford in Manchester.
England, the reigning ODI world champions, have named a full-strength squad led by Jos Buttler, including Ben Stokes, Joe Root, and Jofra Archer. The series is expected to provide a stern test for India's batting lineup against England's pace attack.
Impact on World Cup Preparations
India's selection committee chairman, Chetan Sharma, emphasized the importance of the series. "This series is an opportunity to finalize our combinations ahead of the World Cup. Having Virat back adds experience and stability to the middle order."
The BCCI has also confirmed that KL Rahul will keep wickets in the first two ODIs, allowing Ishan Kishan to play as a specialist batter. The final XI will be determined based on conditions and fitness assessments.
