Top 3 bowlers to watch out for in West Indies vs England 1st ODI

England and the West Indies will face each other in the first ODI of the three-match series. The game will be played at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Thursday, May 29, at 5:30 PM (IST). Both teams are coming off contrasting journeys in their last five ODI appearances, which makes this game very crucial and all-important. 

England will aim to end their losing streak as they are coming off five consecutive defeats in their last five games. It also includes a group-stage exit from the Champions Trophy 2025 earlier this year in Pakistan. On the contrary, the West Indies have won three games, alongside only one defeat and a ‘no-result’ game in their last five games. 

So, here we’ll have a look at the top 3 bowlers to watch out for in the upcoming first ODI between England and the West Indies. 

1. Adil Rashid 

The veteran England spinner was one of the ‘performing bowlers’ for England amidst their dismal run in the Champions Trophy 2025. In his last 10 ODI games, Rashid has scalped 13 wickets with a brilliant economy rate of just 5.85. He is also the leading wicket-taker for the English side in these ODI appearances. 

Rashid could pose a serious threat to the Caribbean batters while bowling in the middle overs of the game, when the pitch will have a bit of support for the spinners. He is going to be a vital cog in the wheel for the hosts, owing to his spin abilities. 

2. Matthew Forde 

The young Caribbean pacer Matthew Forde has impressed everyone with his brilliant bowling in the last six ODIs he has played. Forde has scalped 11 wickets in six games, with an amazing economy rate of just 5.03. He has also emerged as one of the ‘top performers with the ball’ for the Caribbean side in the last few ODI assignments. 

Forde also has a decent bowling strike rate of 27, which reflects his wicket-taking abilities and his impact in the first few overs of the powerplay phase. So, he will also be in focus among the three bowlers to watch out for in the ODI series opener between England and the West Indies. 

3. Alzarri Joseph 

Star WI pacer Alzarri Joseph has also been a crucial asset with the ball for West Indies in his last seven ODI appearances. He has scalped 11 wickets with a decent economy rate of just 5.58 and a good strike rate of 32.27. He might trouble the English batters, alongside having company from his fellow pacer Matthew Forde. 

The pace-friendly conditions in England might also help the 28-year-old to prove his worth and showcase his skills in favour of the visitors. It also makes him one of the top 3 bowlers in focus during this game. 

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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