The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team is set to wear a brand-new jersey featuring a tricolour gradient on the shoulder blades during the three-match ODI series against England. The series, beginning at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur on Thursday, serves as a key preparation ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
The jersey, first worn by the Harmanpreet Kaur-led women’s team in their home series against Ireland last month, was officially unveiled in November by ICC Chairman Jay Shah. It replaces the previous ODI kit, which India sported during their Sri Lanka tour in July 2024. The Indian men’s team will don the new attire in both the England series and the Champions Trophy.
Fresh Kit, Fresh Start
With the Champions Trophy approaching, India aims to finalize their best XI, especially since their last ODI match was in July 2024. There’s also uncertainty over whether they will play a practice game in Dubai before the tournament. This series will be crucial for several players under scrutiny, including captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both had a disappointing run in red-ball cricket and struggled in the Ranji Trophy last month. However, they dominated the 2023 World Cup, where Kohli amassed 765 runs and Rohit scored 597.
India also faces concerns over Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness. The pacer, recovering from back spasms, hasn’t played since early January, and his availability for the Champions Trophy remains uncertain. This places added responsibility on Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh to lead the attack in the England series.
