Virat Kohli Dramatic Return : The stage is set for an explosive second ODI between India and England at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on February 9, 2025. With India leading the series 1-0 after their comprehensive victory in Nagpur, all eyes are on Virat Kohli’s return from injury and the strategic changes that could reshape India’s playing XI. Here’s your complete breakdown of the team combinations that could determine this crucial encounter.

Team India’s Likely XI: The Return of the King

After missing the first ODI due to a knee injury, Virat Kohli is set to make his comeback, forcing some tough selection decisions. Here’s India’s probable playing XI:

Rohit Sharma (Captain)
Shubman Gill
Virat Kohli
Shreyas Iyer
KL Rahul (WK)
Hardik Pandya
Axar Patel
Varun Chakravarthy
Kuldeep Yadav
Arshdeep Singh
Harshit Rana

Key Changes:

Yashasvi Jaiswal makes way for Virat Kohli
Mohammed Shami likely to be rested
Varun Chakravarthy could make his ODI debut

Strategic Breakdown: Why These Changes Matter

Opening Combination
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill will continue their successful partnership at the top. In the first ODI, Gill’s magnificent 87 showcased why he’s India’s premier ODI opener. Their contrasting styles – Rohit’s calculated aggression and Gill’s elegant stroke-play – make them a formidable duo.

Middle Order Reshuffle
Kohli’s return at No. 3 strengthens the middle order significantly. Despite Shreyas Iyer’s impressive 59 in the first ODI, he’ll likely move to No. 4, creating a more dynamic batting lineup. KL Rahul retains his spot at No. 5, providing stability and finishing capabilities.

All-Round Department
Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel form a potent all-round combination. Axar’s recent form with both bat (52 in first ODI) and ball makes him undroppable, while Pandya’s presence provides crucial balance to the team.

Bowling Configuration: Mix of Experience and Youth

The bowling attack sees strategic changes:

Varun Chakravarthy could make his ODI debut after impressive T20I performances
Kuldeep Yadav retains his place after economical bowling in Nagpur
Arshdeep Singh might replace Mohammed Shami for rotation
Harshit Rana keeps his spot after a promising debut

England’s Expected Response

England’s likely XI:

Phil Salt
Ben Duckett
Joe Root
Harry Brook
Jos Buttler (C/WK)
Liam Livingstone
Jacob Bethell
Brydon Carse
Adil Rashid
Mark Wood
Jofra Archer

Key Changes:

Mark Wood likely to replace Saqib Mahmood
Batting order remains unchanged despite Nagpur struggles

Venue Analysis: Barabati’s Batting Paradise

The Barabati Stadium in Cuttack has historically favored batsmen:

Average first innings score: 356 (last three ODIs)
Bowlers average nearly 40 runs per wicket
Dew factor could influence the toss decision

Match Implications

A win would seal the series for India, providing valuable momentum before the Champions Trophy. For England, it’s about survival and maintaining their world champion status.The return of Virat Kohli, combined with strategic bowling changes, suggests India are balancing immediate success with long-term preparation. As cricket fever grips Cuttack, this playing XI represents India’s blueprint for limited-overs dominance.The second ODI begins at 1:30 PM IST on February 9, 2025, at the Barabati Stadium, Cuttack.

Q&A: Key Questions Answered

Q: Why is Yashasvi Jaiswal being dropped despite being a debutant?
A: Despite his talent, Jaiswal’s 15-run performance in Nagpur and Kohli’s return necessitate this change. Team balance takes priority approaching the Champions Trophy.

Q: Can Shreyas Iyer keep his form at No. 4?
A: His 59 in Nagpur showed adaptability. The No. 4 position actually suits his playing style against spin.

: Why rest Mohammed Shami after a good performance?
A: Workload management is crucial with the Champions Trophy approaching. Arshdeep offers a left-arm variation.

Q: Is Varun Chakravarthy ready for ODI cricket?
A: His T20I performances and domestic record suggest he’s prepared. The Cuttack pitch traditionally assists spinners.