The much-anticipated ODI series between England and West Indies kicked off today, May 29, 2025, at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham. With both sides eager to set the tone early in this three-match series, all eyes are on Harry Brook, who marks his captaincy debut in white-ball cricket for England.
This match is particularly significant for England as it’s their first One Day International since the Champions Trophy. The Brook era officially begins, and fans are keen to witness how the young and dynamic right-hander leads the side into a new phase of England’s limited-overs cricket.
West Indies captain Shai Hope won the toss and opted to bowl first under overcast conditions, hoping to exploit the early movement on offer. The decision aligns with traditional Edgbaston wisdom, where bowlers often find help early in the innings.
England’s Playing XI:
England enters the field with a fresh-looking squad blending experience and youth. The playing XI includes:
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Ben Duckett
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Jamie Smith
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Joe Root
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Harry Brook (Captain)
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Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper)
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Jacob Bethell
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Will Jacks
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Jamie Overton
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Brydon Carse
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Saqib Mahmood
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Adil Rashid
Joe Root brings his calm experience back into the middle order, while Jos Buttler plays the dual role of senior batter and wicketkeeper. Adil Rashid and Saqib Mahmood will shoulder the spin and pace attack responsibilities, respectively, with Jamie Overton offering genuine pace.
West Indies’ Playing XI:
West Indies, led by the composed Shai Hope, have gone with a solid lineup featuring power hitters and versatile bowlers:
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Brandon King
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Justin Greaves
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Keacy Carty
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Shai Hope (Captain/Wicketkeeper)
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Alick Athanaze
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Roston Chase
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Jewel Andrew
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Matthew Forde
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Alzarri Joseph
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Gudakesh Motie
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Shamar Joseph
Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph will spearhead the pace attack, supported by the crafty spin of Gudakesh Motie. The Caribbean side has shown faith in youth, with promising players like Jewel Andrew and Matthew Forde given vital roles.
Spotlight on Harry Brook
The spotlight remains firmly on Harry Brook, who takes over the reins of England’s white-ball team at a time when transition is in full swing. His leadership style, tactical acumen, and batting form will be tested thoroughly during this series. Fans and experts alike are curious to see how he balances his own game with the responsibilities of captaincy.
Though not part of any ICC tournament, this ODI series is vital for both teams as they prepare for future white-ball events, including the ICC World Cup qualifiers and the World Cup Super League standings. For England, it’s a fresh beginning under a new leader, while for the West Indies, it’s a chance to consolidate under Hope’s stable captaincy.
