India’s ODI Squad for England Tour: Rohit and Kohli Return, Jaiswal Dropped Despite Century

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of England, marking the return of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both players have been included in the squad for the first time since January 2026, with Kohli subject to fitness clearance following a hamstring injury sustained during the IPL 2026 final.

Rohit Sharma’s inclusion comes despite a sub-par series against Afghanistan, where he scored 14, 48, and 79 in the three matches. Speculation about his place in the team had intensified after captain Shubman Gill declined to confirm his opening partner during pre-series press conferences. However, the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar has retained Rohit, indicating confidence in his experience.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored his second ODI century in the final match against Afghanistan in Chennai, has been omitted from the squad. The left-handed opener impressed with a fluent knock, but the return of Kohli and a settled top order led to his exclusion. BCCI sources indicated that Jaiswal remains in the selectors’ plans for future series.

Virat Kohli, who missed the Afghanistan series due to the hamstring injury sustained in the IPL final, is expected to rejoin the squad after passing a fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The BCCI statement confirmed that Kohli will be available for the series only after obtaining the necessary clearance.

Jasprit Bumrah, who has been recovering from a back injury, also returns to the ODI setup. The pace bowler missed the home season but has been declared fit for the England tour. His inclusion bolsters India’s bowling attack, alongside Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.

Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the series after failing to regain full fitness from an injury sustained during the IPL season with Mumbai Indians. Pandya underwent rehabilitation at the NCA but has been advised further rest. The BCCI has not named a replacement, and the squad will travel with the available all-round options.

The squad features a mix of youth and experience, with Shubman Gill leading the side. Gill, who was appointed ODI captain earlier this year, will be aiming to build on his leadership record. The batting lineup includes KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shreyas Iyer, while the bowling department is spearheaded by Bumrah and Shami.

The England tour comprises three ODIs, scheduled to be played in June 2026. The matches will be crucial for India’s preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup. The BCCI selection committee has emphasized the need to balance performance and fitness in the buildup to the marquee event.

The omission of Jaiswal has sparked debate among cricket analysts, with many pointing to his recent form as evidence of readiness for international cricket. However, selectors have prioritized the return of senior players to provide stability. The squad is expected to depart for England next week, with the first ODI set to be played at Lord’s.