The much-anticipated England vs West Indies ODI series kicks off on May 29, 2025, with the first match at the iconic Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham. Both teams are eager to start strong in this three-match series that holds crucial implications for their ICC ODI rankings and 2027 World Cup qualification hopes.
Match Details
- Date & Time: May 29, 2025, 5:30 PM IST / 1:00 PM BST
- Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
- Broadcast: Sony Sports Network (India), Sky Sports Cricket (England), SportsMax (West Indies)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV, Sky Go, SportsMax App, ICC.tv (rest of world)
Teams and Predicted Playing XI
England (Captain: Harry Brook)
Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood.
West Indies (Captain: Shai Hope)
Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (c/wk), Roston Chase, Amir Jangoo, Justin Greaves, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales.
Pitch and Weather Report
Edgbaston is known for offering early movement to seam bowlers, making the initial overs challenging for batsmen. However, as the innings progresses, the pitch tends to ease out, allowing stroke-makers to settle in. Spinners may find some assistance during the middle overs. A competitive total is expected to be in the range of 290-310 runs. Historically, teams chasing have enjoyed a slight advantage at this venue.
The weather forecast predicts a cloudy afternoon in Birmingham with temperatures around 19°C and a 20% chance of light rain, which could add an element of uncertainty to the match.
Key Players to Watch
- Harry Brook (ENG): The new England white-ball captain has been in fine form, scoring 816 runs in 26 ODIs. His aggressive style will be crucial at the top of the order.
- Jos Buttler (ENG): One of the world’s best finishers with over 5,000 ODI runs, Buttler’s explosive batting can change the game in a matter of overs.
- Joe Root (ENG): The experienced middle-order batsman provides stability and is a key player in England’s lineup.
- Shai Hope (WI): The West Indies captain and wicketkeeper-batsman is known for his consistency and ability to anchor innings.
- Keacy Carty (WI): A young and dynamic batsman who adds firepower at the top.
- Alzarri Joseph (WI): The pacer leads the Windies bowling attack and can exploit Edgbaston’s seam-friendly conditions.
Recent Form and Series Importance
England enters this series looking to break a frustrating seven-match ODI losing streak and rebuild under Harry Brook’s leadership. The West Indies, meanwhile, come off a rain-affected series against Ireland and are eager to improve their ICC rankings and secure direct qualification for the 2027 World Cup.
The two teams have faced each other 108 times in ODIs, with England holding a slight edge of 54 wins to West Indies’ 48, promising a tightly contested series.
Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Tips
- Captain Choices: Harry Brook, Joe Root
- Vice-Captain Choices: Shai Hope, Jos Buttler
- Key Picks: Ben Duckett, Keacy Carty, Alzarri Joseph, Adil Rashid, Roston Chase
- Wicketkeepers: Jos Buttler, Shai Hope
- All-rounders: Roston Chase, Matthew Forde
- Bowlers: Brydon Carse, Saqib Mahmood, Gudakesh Motie
Conclusion
The England vs West Indies 1st ODI at Edgbaston promises an exciting clash between two competitive sides hungry for victory. With key players in form and conditions favoring bowlers early on, expect a thrilling contest that could set the tone for the rest of the series. Fans and fantasy cricket players should keep a close eye on team strategies and player performances as both sides aim to climb the ICC rankings and boost their World Cup qualification chances.
Stay tuned to Malakal Book for live updates, expert previews, and the best betting insights on this eagerly awaited ODI series.
