In the opening ODI at Edgbaston, West Indies won the toss and decided to bowl first against England. This marks Harry Brook’s first match as England’s full-time white-ball captain. Shai Hope, the West Indies skipper, called the toss correctly and chose to bowl, believing the conditions would favour the bowlers in this day-night fixture.
England’s New Look Batting Line-up Under Scrutiny
Under Brook’s leadership, England’s batting order will be tested. In a key change, Jamie Smith will open for the first time in List A cricket, moving up from No.3, a position where he had struggled during the ICC Champions Trophy. Jacob Bethell, who was sidelined due to a left hamstring injury, returns to the squad. Additionally, Will Jacks makes his first international appearance since November 2024.
West Indies Aim to Improve in Series Against England
West Indies are coming off a 1-1 draw in a three-match ODI series against Ireland and are looking to improve their performance ahead of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Having missed out on the 2023 edition, they hope to boost their qualification hopes in this series.
Injury Blow for West Indies: Evin Lewis Ruled Out
In a late change to their squad, Evin Lewis was ruled out due to injury, with 18-year-old Jewel Andrew replacing him in the West Indies XI. This will be Andrew’s second international appearance, after earning his maiden cap against Sri Lanka last November. Justin Greaves is expected to open in place of Lewis, while Jayden Seales is selected over Shamar Joseph.
Milestones and Debuts
Before the toss, Adil Rashid was presented with his 150th cap by his long-time teammate and former captain Jos Buttler, who makes his first appearance since stepping down as captain in February. Brandon King will also mark his 50th ODI appearance.
Line-ups:
England:
- Jamie Smith
- Ben Duckett
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook (capt)
- Jos Buttler (wk)
- Jacob Bethell
- Will Jacks
- Jamie Overton
- Brydon Carse
- Adil Rashid
- Saqib Mahmood
West Indies:
- Brandon King
- Justin Greaves
- Keacy Carty
- Shai Hope (capt & wk)
- Amir Jangoo
- Roston Chase
- Jewel Andrew
- Matthew Forde
- Alzarri Joseph
- Gudakesh Motie
- Jayden Seales
