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3 Reasons why England hold the upper hand over India ahead of ODI series

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Harry Brook celebrates a wicket with his England teammates

Harry Brook celebrates a wicket with his England teammates (Source: ECB)

Mr Cricket UAE Staff

Mr Cricket UAE Staff

Published - 13 Jul 2026, 06:11 PM Read time - 2 mins

After a bruising 4‑0 defeat in the T20I series, India will be desperate to bounce back when the three‑match ODI contest begins on Tuesday at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The return of experienced campaigners Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah offers India much‑needed stability. 

Rohit featured in the Afghanistan ODIs, while Kohli missed out through injury and Bumrah was rested after a demanding IPL season.

Yet, the challenge remains formidable. England have shown they are no pushovers and arrive dialled in for the contest. Here are three reasons why the hosts hold the upper hand ahead of the series opener.

1. England’s winning momentum

England’s T20I triumph over India was more than just a win. It was a demolition. They outclassed the Men in Blue in all three departments, leaving scars that won’t fade quickly. With most of those victorious players set to feature in the ODIs, England will carry that momentum into the 50‑over format. For India, overcoming such a spirited and confident side will be no mean task.

2. The presence of Joe Root

England’s batting order is stacked with flamboyant power‑hitters, but balance is key. That balance comes in the form of Joe Root, the fulcrum of their middle order. Root’s ability to anchor innings allows others to play with freedom, adding method to England’s madness. His presence ensures England’s batting isn’t just explosive but also calculated.

3. India’s bowling form and injury concern

India’s bowling unit enters the ODIs under pressure. Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube endured torrid outings in the T20Is:

  • Krishna conceded 64 runs in two games at 9.14 economy.
  • Axar leaked 156 runs in four innings at 11.14 economy.
  • Prince Yadav went at 10.72.
  • Dube was the most expensive, hammered at 15.66.

Even Kuldeep Yadav, India’s left‑arm wrist spinner, has struggled since the IPL. His lone ODI against Afghanistan saw him finish wicketless with 0/42 in 10 overs.

Adding to the woes, India have lost Harshit Rana to a Grade 1 hamstring injury, further thinning their pace resources. 

For all things considered, there will be a lot of expectations and responsibility on the shoulders of Bumrah as he returns to action after a break.