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HomeTop StoriesVirat Kohli Returns as India Announce ODI Squad for England Tour

Virat Kohli Returns as India Announce ODI Squad for England Tour

Venkatesh Devarakonda
Venkatesh Devarakonda
June 25, 2026, 9:13 AM IST
3 Min Read
Virat Kohli Returns as India Announce ODI Squad for England Tour

India have announced a strong squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, bringing back several experienced players as preparations continue for future international assignments. Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel have all returned to the 15-member squad, giving India a balanced combination of experience and youth ahead of an important overseas challenge.

The series will be led by Shubman Gill, who continues as captain after guiding India in recent ODI matches. With England expected to provide demanding conditions, the selectors have opted for a full-strength squad capable of competing against one of the world's strongest white-ball teams.

Virat Kohli Returns After Injury

Virat Kohli has been included in the squad after missing the ODI series against Afghanistan because of a hamstring injury. His return strengthens India's batting unit with one of the country's most experienced and dependable players.

Kohli's availability remains subject to medical clearance, but his selection reflects confidence that he will be fit in time for the England tour. His experience in English conditions is expected to play a valuable role for a relatively young Indian side.

Bumrah and Axar Add Balance

Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah also returns to the ODI squad after being rested as part of workload management. His presence significantly strengthens India's pace attack, particularly in conditions that traditionally assist fast bowlers.

All-rounder Axar Patel has earned a recall after missing recent ODI assignments. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball provides India with additional flexibility during the middle overs.

Yashasvi Jaiswal Misses Selection

One of the notable decisions from the squad announcement is the omission of Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The young opener recently scored an unbeaten century against Afghanistan, registering his second ODI hundred in only six matches. Despite his impressive performances, the selectors have preferred their established batting combination following Kohli's return.

The decision highlights the depth of India's batting resources, where competition for places remains extremely strong.

Young Players Continue to Impress

Harshit Rana has retained his place after successfully returning from injury during the Afghanistan ODI series. The fast bowler remains one of India's promising pace options as the team continues building its squad for future ICC tournaments.

Young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and left-arm seamer Gurnoor Brar also continue to receive opportunities as India invests in emerging talent alongside experienced campaigners.

India ODI Squad for England

  • Shubman Gill (Captain)
  • Rohit Sharma
  • Virat Kohli*
  • Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain)
  • KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
  • Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper)
  • Washington Sundar
  • Axar Patel
  • Nitish Kumar Reddy
  • Kuldeep Yadav
  • Jasprit Bumrah
  • Prasidh Krishna
  • Harshit Rana
  • Arshdeep Singh
  • Gurnoor Brar

Subject to fitness clearance.

England ODI Series Schedule

The three-match ODI series will be played in England during July:

  • 1st ODI: Birmingham – July 14
  • 2nd ODI: Cardiff – July 16
  • 3rd ODI: Lord's, London – July 19

The series will serve as another important step in India's preparations for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Final Thoughts

India's squad selection reflects a clear balance between proven international performers and exciting young cricketers. The return of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel adds valuable experience, while players such as Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy continue to gain exposure at the highest level.

Although Yashasvi Jaiswal misses out despite impressive recent performances, his strong start to ODI cricket keeps him firmly in contention for future opportunities. With challenging conditions awaiting in England, the upcoming series will provide another important test for India's evolving ODI squad.