West Indies tour of England 2025: Predicting ENG’s Playing XI for the 3rd ODI against WI

From chaos to comeback — the second ODI in Cardiff saw England edge past West Indies in a thriller decided by inches, thanks to Root standing tall with a masterful 166, single-handedly steering England into the driver’s seat. With the 3rd ODI next up, England will aim to keep the momentum for home advantage and close out the series against the Windies to come out swinging—they’ve got pride to reclaim and a series to even.

Openers

England’s opening pair in their last match could not have been worse when both batsmen, Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett, got out without scoring. However, it is safe to say both players are still England’s best options at the top of the order. Jamie Smith has an aggressive game; he can utilize the power and do so quickly to set a good pace. Duckett is more technically sound and can build an innings, but the challenge for both players is to get going this time and lay a platform for the middle order.

Harry Brook now bats at three, but in the last match, he gave England’s innings some valuable fuel with his brisk 47 off 36 balls. Brook is useful in the batting order as he acts as a link between the openers and the middle order. His ability to hit aggressive strokes and remain calm in tough situations suggests that he has the ability to attack early and keep the momentum moving.

Middle Order

Joe Root’s unbeaten 166 was less an innings, more an anchor around which England’s resistance was built. From a pacing of a chase standpoint, Root’s innings was a perfect example of how to balance calm and composure whilst also being aggressive when it mattered. Joe’s form is important to England’s success because he can accelerate when required, but also hold an innings as well.

Will Jacks played well for his 49 runs by showing how valuable a middle-order batsman can be. He had a measured innings and showed that he can handle pressure and keep the scoreboard ticking. Jacob Bethell brings flexibility and depth to the side with his all-rounder capabilities after his modest 17 runs last week. This middle order looks secure enough to steady England’s innings and finish matches.

All-Rounders

Multi-skilled players like Will Jacks and Brydon Carse can provide some balance and flexibility, with the balance of Jacks adding value with bat and ball, which can provide a valuable player who can change the game, rivaling players with bat and ball. Carse was less impactful with the bat in the last game, but is an aggressive pace bowler capable of giving some extra depth with the bat from a lower-order position.

Both all-rounders give England a little bit of shuffling room with selections and planning with these two particular all-rounders; their ability to turn the momentum of a game with bat or ball offers a lot for England’s potential.

Bowlers 

In the last match, England’s bowling group was very effective and disciplined, especially Adil Rashid, who was superb with 4 for 63 from his leg-spin. he was gold. Considering the variations, neither approach, Adil in the middle overs, is a potent threat, having previously broken partnerships and struggled in matching a good run rate.

As for the pace bowlers, Saqib Mahmood and Matthew Potts also did well. Mahmood’s 3 wickets for 37 runs off 8 overs and whilst he was economical, really put the brakes on West Indies in runs generated. Potts backed up Mahmood effectively through his economical spells. The importance of a pace-spin combination in the next game will be a large factor in trying to apply early pressure and lead the game in the initial phases.

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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