Thu Feb 06 16:37:20 UTC 2025: ## India Triumphs Over England in Nagpur ODI Thriller

**Nagpur, India** – India clinched a thrilling four-wicket victory over England in the first One Day International (ODI) at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur on Thursday, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. A strong batting performance, spearheaded by half-centuries from Shreyas Iyer (59), Shubman Gill (87), and Axar Patel (52), overcame a shaky start after the early dismissal of openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma.

England, electing to bat first, posted a challenging 248 in 47.4 overs. Jos Buttler (51) and Jacob Bethell (51) anchored the innings, but a strong bowling performance from India, featuring impressive debuts from Harshit Rana (3/53) and impactful contributions from Ravindra Jadeja (3/26), restricted England’s total. Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel also chipped in with wickets.

India’s chase was initially hampered by the early loss of their openers, but a crucial 94-run partnership between Iyer and Gill steadied the ship. Gill then combined with Axar Patel for a 108-run stand, pushing India close to victory. Despite late wickets, including Gill’s dismissal for a well-played 87, India reached the target in 38.4 overs.

India’s win was made even more impressive considering Virat Kohli’s absence due to a sore right knee. Post-match comments highlighted India’s strategic bowling changes and the effectiveness of their spinners on a pitch offering assistance to the bowlers. The series continues with the second ODI on Sunday.

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