The second ODI between India and England takes place today at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, with India looking to secure the series after winning the first match.
Key facts
The match starts at 5:30 PM IST, with the toss at 5 PM IST.
India won the first ODI by six wickets, chasing down 258 runs.
KL Rahul is absent due to illness; Ishan Kishan replaces him as wicketkeeper.
England captain Harry Brook elected to bowl first after winning the toss.
Why it matters: This match is a must-win for England, who are behind 1-0 in the three-match series. India aims to build on their momentum from the first ODI.
India's six-wicket win in the first ODI has put them in a strong position to clinch the series.
England needs a victory to keep their hopes alive for a comeback in the series.
Both teams are adjusting their lineups to adapt to the conditions at Sophia Gardens.
Driving the news: The second ODI will kick off at 5:30 PM IST (1:00 PM BST) on July 16, 2026, following a successful first match for India.
India's captain Shubman Gill led the team to victory in the first ODI, scoring 80 runs before retiring due to cramps.
England was bowled out for 258 runs in the first ODI, prompting changes in their lineup for this match.
KL Rahul's absence due to illness forced India to make a change to their winning combination.
State of play: Both teams have made adjustments to their squads ahead of the second ODI, with England aiming to strengthen their bowling attack.
England captain Harry Brook confirmed that Saqib Mahmood and Gus Atkinson replaced Josh Tongue and Liam Dawson in their lineup.
India maintained most of their successful lineup, with Ishan Kishan stepping in for the unwell Rahul.
Shubman Gill expressed confidence in the team's performance but acknowledged the need for consistency.
The big picture: India and England have a storied rivalry in ODIs, with India leading the head-to-head record.
In 111 ODIs, India has won 62 matches compared to England's 44, with two ties and three no results.
India will look to extend their dominance in ODIs during this series.
Conditions at Cardiff are expected to favor seamers early on, which could impact the match dynamics.
What they're saying: Both captains shared their thoughts on the match during the toss.
"We would have bowled first as well," Shubman Gill said, confirming the team's strategy and expressing confidence in their form.
Harry Brook stated, "We hope to get a bit of seam movement and swing up front," highlighting England's approach to utilize pitch conditions.
Gill also mentioned, "We had a perfect game last time; hopefully, we will do it again today," reinforcing India's determination.
By the numbers: Key statistics from the series so far highlight the competitive nature of the matchup.
India's bowlers, particularly Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar, each took two wickets in the first ODI.
Axar Patel's all-round performance included 4 wickets and a score of 57 not out.
Shubman Gill's 80 runs in the first match showcased his importance to India's batting lineup.
What's next: The outcome of this match will significantly influence the series' direction.
If India wins, they will secure the ODI series against England.
England must win to force a decider in the final ODI of the series.
The match will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar in India.