Thu Feb 06 23:18:14 UTC 2025: ## India Triumphs in ODI Series Opener Despite Rohit Sharma’s Early Exit

**Nagpur, India –** India secured a convincing victory over England in the first ODI of their three-match series on Thursday, despite a disappointing start for captain Rohit Sharma. Sharma, returning to ODI cricket after a break, was dismissed for just 2 runs in the sixth over, leaving India reeling at 19/2.

However, Shubman Gill’s composed 87 and Shreyas Iyer’s explosive 59 steered India to a comfortable chase of 249. Gill, batting at number three in Virat Kohli’s absence (due to a knee injury), anchored the innings, showcasing his growing maturity and cementing his position as a key opener. Iyer, meanwhile, provided a thrilling display of power hitting, smashing two sixes and nine boundaries in a quickfire 36-ball innings.

Axar Patel also contributed significantly, smashing his maiden ODI fifty (52 off 47) in a crucial 108-run partnership with Gill. The lower middle order provided further support, ensuring India reached the target in 38.4 overs with four wickets remaining.

England, despite a strong start from Phil Salt (43) and Ben Duckett (32), suffered a mid-innings collapse. Ravindra Jadeja led India’s bowling attack with figures of 3/26, becoming only the fifth Indian bowler to reach 600 international wickets. Debutant Harshit Rana also made an impact, picking up two crucial wickets.

While Rohit Sharma’s early dismissal was a setback, the overall performance highlighted India’s strength in depth. The team’s batting prowess, coupled with a strong bowling performance, signaled a positive start to their campaign ahead of the Champions Trophy. The series continues in Cuttack on Sunday.

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