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.

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.