India began their three-match ODI series in England with a six-wicket win over the hosts in the opening match at Edgbaston, Birmingham. England captain Harry Brook won the toss and chose to bat first.
England started briskly through Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell, adding 61 for the first wicket. But a rapid collapse followed, with wickets falling in quick succession as India tightened the screws; England slipped to 64/3 and later to 80/5.
Joe Root and Liam Dawson then rebuilt the innings with a 121-run stand for the seventh wicket, both reaching half-centuries. India’s bowlers struck late, with Axar Patel’s spin accounting for key lower-order wickets as England were bowled out for 258 in 47.5 overs; Root remained unbeaten on 76.
In reply, India lost Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early, while Shubman Gill made 80 before retiring hurt due to a right-leg muscle issue. Axar Patel (57*) and Washington Sundar (52*) guided the chase calmly, taking India to the target in 45.2 overs. Axar, who also took four wickets, was named Player of the Match.
