As India prepares to host England in the first ODI at Vidarbha Stadium, Nagpur on February 6, 2025, the spotlight will be on the all-rounders who could decisively influence the outcome.

This match is crucial not only for the series but also as a stepping stone towards the Champions Trophy 2025, where India will kick off against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20th.

Coming off a 4-1 victory in the T20I series against England, India looks to maintain their momentum. Here, we delve into how three all-rounders might tilt the scales in this encounter.

Here Are 3 All-Rounders Who Can Turn The Table In The First ODI In IND vs ENG

Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya has been a revelation in recent times, particularly after his performances in the World Cup 2023 where he started strongly before an ankle injury against Bangladesh sidelined him.

His comeback in the T20I series against England showcased his form and fitness, making him a critical asset for India.

In ODIs, Pandya has played 86 matches, scoring 1769 runs at an average of 34.01 with a strike rate of 110.35, proving his ability to change the game with the bat.

His highest score of 92* and 11 fifties underlines his capacity to finish innings.

On the bowling front, Pandya has taken 84 wickets in 80 innings with his best being 4/24, maintaining an economy rate of 5.55.

His pace, combined with variations, can disrupt the flow of any batting lineup, especially in the middle overs where he often provides crucial breakthroughs.

In the context of this match, Pandya’s role could be pivotal. His ability to bowl at different phases of the game and then come out to bat with aggressive intent could be the key to either setting or chasing down a total.

His fitness will be under scrutiny, but if he’s in good health, his impact could be match-defining.

Ravindra Jadaja

Ravindra Jadeja has long been the backbone of the Indian team, especially in times of crisis. With 197 ODIs under his belt, he has scored 2756 runs at an average of 32.42, with a highest of 87.

His batting strike rate of 85.06, though not the fastest, is effective when the situation demands stabilization or acceleration.

Jadeja’s 13 fifties show his knack for playing crucial knocks, particularly when the top order collapses or when quick runs are needed in the death overs.

His bowling stats are equally impressive, with 220 wickets at an average of 36.07, including two five-wicket hauls.

His economy rate of 4.88 reflects his control over the game, often strangling the opposition with his left-arm spin.

On the Nagpur pitch, which is known to assist spinners, Jadeja’s role could be even more significant.

His capacity to bowl long spells, take wickets, and then contribute with the bat, especially in the lower middle order, makes him an invaluable asset.

His fielding, often turning matches with spectacular catches or run-outs, adds another dimension to his utility.

Liam Livingstone

Liam Livingstone brings a different dynamic to England’s side. In 33 ODIs, he has scored 844 runs at an average of 35.16 with a strike rate of 111.49, including a high score of 124*.

His ability to score quickly, evidenced by 47 sixes, can be particularly devastating in the middle and late overs.

Livingstone’s one century and four fifties indicate his potential to anchor or accelerate as required, providing England with tactical flexibility.

With the ball, Livingstone has taken 21 wickets in ODIs, with his best figures being 3/16. His off-spin offers England a different bowling option, especially against left-handers or when looking to slow down the scoring rate.

His economy rate of 6.09 is reasonable in the context of his role as an attacking all-rounder.

In this match, Livingstone’s contribution could be crucial, especially if England needs a quick recovery with the bat or if they require a breakthrough with the ball during India’s innings.

His aggressive style could unsettle the Indian bowlers, while his bowling might just provide the control or wickets England needs to keep the game in balance.

As India and England clash in this pivotal ODI, these all-rounders – Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Liam Livingstone – are poised to play significant roles.

Their performances could not only dictate the result but also highlight their importance for their respective teams’ strategies leading into the Champions Trophy.

Their ability to impact the game with both bat and ball makes them central figures in what promises to be an exciting contest.