3 Bowlers Who Could Be Highest Wicket-Takers In IND vs ENG 1st ODI In Nagpur

Kuldeep Yadav gearing up for 1st ODI [Source: @BCCI/X.com]

The much-anticipated ODI series between India and England is set to begin, with both teams preparing for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. After dominating the T20I series with a 4-1 win, India will be eager to maintain their momentum in the 50-over format.

The action kicks off at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur on February 6. As both teams gear up for this exciting battle, let's take a look at three bowlers who could end up as the highest wicket-takers in the first ODI.

1) Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav, India's star spinner, will be a key player to watch in the first ODI. The left-arm wrist-spinner was last seen in action during the New Zealand Test series in 2024 and will be looking to make an impact in the limited-overs format.

Kuldeep has a strong record in ODIs, having taken 172 wickets in 103 innings at an average of 26.00. His ability to trouble England’s batters, who struggled against spin in the T20I series, makes him a serious threat.

Table: Kuldeep Yadav's ODI stats

The Nagpur pitch is known to assist spinners, especially as the game progresses. If the surface develops cracks and becomes drier, Kuldeep’s unorthodox left-arm spin could play a major role, particularly in the second innings.

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2) Jofra Archer

Jofra Archer’s return to the England squad is a massive boost for their bowling attack. The express pacer is known for his pace, accuracy, and ability to deliver deadly short balls, making him a major threat to India’s batting lineup.

In his 27 ODI matches, Archer has picked up 47 wickets at an impressive average of 25.12. His variations and hard-length deliveries will make him a tough bowler to handle in Nagpur.

Table: Jofra Archer's ODI stats

Archer’s ability to generate extra bounce and movement can trouble Indian batters, especially under the lights. His skills in both the powerplay and death overs make him a prime candidate to be among the top wicket-takers.

3) Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep Singh has been in outstanding form in white-ball cricket. His performances in domestic cricket, particularly in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he claimed 20 wickets in just seven matches, prove his ability to succeed in ODIs.

The left-arm pacer has been excellent with the new ball and is known for his accurate yorkers in the death overs. In ODIs, he has played seven innings, taking 12 wickets at an economy rate of 5.05.

Table:Arshdeep Singh's ODI stats

Arshdeep’s ability to swing the ball early and execute yorkers at the death makes him a dangerous bowler. Given his recent form and England’s struggles against left-arm pace, he could be a major wicket-taker in Nagpur.

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