Kohli Returns As India Name Squad For England ODIs

India have named a 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against England, with Virat Kohli returning to the setup subject to fitness clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE).

The veteran batter, who missed the recent ODI series against Afghanistan because of a hamstring injury sustained during IPL 2026, is scheduled to undergo a fitness assessment in Bengaluru. Kohli’s inclusion indicates that the selectors are confident about his recovery ahead of the important series.

Bumrah And Axar Back In ODI Setup

The squad also marks the return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who had been rested for workload management, and all-rounder Axar Patel, who replaces left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey.

Dubey, who impressed during the Afghanistan series, will now join the India A squad for the multi-day series against Sri Lanka A as selectors continue to assess spin options ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Jaiswal Misses Out Despite Strong Showing

One of the notable omissions is Yashasvi Jaiswal. The young opener scored two centuries against Afghanistan but loses his place following Kohli’s return.

With captain Shubman Gill expected to open alongside Rohit Sharma, the team management appears keen to maintain a settled top order. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been retained as a backup opening option.

Pace Attack Takes Shape

India’s pace unit for the England tour will comprise Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar.

The inclusion of Gurnoor Brar is particularly significant after his impressive performances against Afghanistan, while Harshit Rana continues to be viewed as a long-term all-round pace option.