England vs West Indies 1st ODI 2025: Match Preview

Date: 29 May 2025
Time: 13:00 GMT / 5:30 PM IST
Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham, England
Series: 3-match ODI Series (Part of West Indies Tour of England 2025)
Captain (England): Harry Brook
Captain (West Indies): Shai Hope

Match Context & Series Overview

The 1st ODI of the West Indies’ 2025 tour of England kicks off at the iconic Edgbaston in Birmingham. This match marks the beginning of a high-stakes three-match ODI series, followed by a three-match T20I series in June. The rivalry between England and the West Indies has always been fierce, and with both teams looking to make a strong start, the stage is set for an exciting contest.

The West Indies have enjoyed dominance over England in recent ODI encounters, having won the last two series in 2023 and 2024. England, on the other hand, are coming off a disappointing Champions Trophy campaign where they failed to win a single match. With a new captain in Harry Brook and a revamped batting lineup, England will be eager to prove their credentials on home soil.

Venue & Pitch Insights

Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
Pitch Type: Batting-friendly with some assistance for fast bowlers in the early overs.
Historical Data (ODI – Edgbaston):

• Batting First Wins: 40.63%
• Bowling First Wins: 59.37%
• Average 1st Innings Score: 233
• Average 2nd Innings Score: 189
• Pace Bowlers' Wicket Percentage: 82.1%
• Spin Bowlers' Wicket Percentage: 17.9%

With the pitch favoring bowlers, the decision to bat or bowl first could be a crucial factor in this match.

Team News & Key Players

England (1st ODI Playing XI):

1. Ben Duckett – New opening batsman, known for his aggressive strokeplay.
2. Jamie Smith – Partnering Duckett at the top, offers a solid start.
3. Joe Root – The team’s anchor and experienced middle-order batsman.
4. Harry Brook (C) – New captain, brings all-round ability and leadership.
5. Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper) – Dynamic finisher and reliable gloveman.
6. Jacob Bethell – Emerging middle-order batsman with a calm approach.
7. Will Jacks – All-rounder, demoted in the order but still valuable with the bat and ball.
8. Jamie Overton – Useful lower-order batsman and part-time seamer.
9. Brydon Carse – Key spinner, known for his accuracy and variations.
10. Saqib Mahmood – Left-arm seamer, offers pace and bounce.
11. Adil Rashid (150th ODI) – One of the most experienced spinners in world cricket.

Not Playing: Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson are ruled out due to injuries.

West Indies (1st ODI Playing XI):

1. Evin Lewis – Explosive opener with big-hitting capabilities.
2. Brandon King – Reliable second opener, capable of anchoring the innings.
3. Shai Hope (C) – Steadying hand in the middle order, technically sound.
4. Keacy Carty – Versatile all-rounder, dangerous with the bat and useful with the ball.
5. Roston Chase – Key middle-order batsman and leg-spinner.
6. Sherfane Rutherford – Aggressive middle-order hitter.
7. Alzarri Joseph – Pace spearhead, capable of picking wickets in all conditions.
8. Shamar Joseph – Emerging fast bowler, has shown promise in recent outings.
9. Gudakesh Motie – Wicketkeeper-batsman, adds depth to the middle order.
10. Jayden Seales – Left-arm seamer, offers good control and variations.
11. Justin Greaves – Experienced seamer, known for his discipline.

Head-to-Head Record (ODIs)

• Total Matches: 108
• England Wins: 54
• West Indies Wins: 48
• Last Two Series (2023 & 2024): West Indies won both 2-1

The West Indies have been in fine form against England in recent years and will look to continue that trend. However, England have the advantage of home conditions and a revamped squad under new leadership.

Key Matchups

• Evin Lewis vs. Brydon Carse: Can the West Indies openers accelerate quickly against the experienced off-spinner?
• Harry Brook vs. Roston Chase: A battle between the new England captain and the West Indies’ leg-spin threat.
• Alzarri Joseph vs. Jamie Smith: The West Indies pace spearhead aims to exploit the new opening pair’s inexperience.

Prediction & Outlook

This match promises to be a closely contested affair. England’s new-look team under Harry Brook will be eager to bounce back after their recent poor form, while the West Indies are looking to continue their dominance in the ODI format against England. The toss could be pivotal given the pitch’s tendency to favor the bowling side.

Prediction:
A thrilling match with both teams vying for control. England might edge it, but the West Indies have the firepower to spring a surprise. Look out for a high-scoring encounter, with the result possibly hinging on the batting performance after the powerplay.

Next Match:
2nd ODI: 1 June 2025
Venue: Sophia Gardens, Cardiff
Time: 3:30 PM IST

Stay tuned for more updates as the series unfolds.
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