England on Brink of Fourth Consecutive ODI Series Defeat as Mahmood Demands Resilience

England Risk Fourth Consecutive ODI Series Defeat as India Test Persists
By Richard Gibson | Updated: 12:35 GMT, 8 February 2025

England face a critical showdown against India in Cuttack on Sunday, risking their fourth-straight ODI series loss since becoming world champions in 2019. After a narrow defeat in Nagpur, Jos Buttler’s side trail 1-0 and must win to keep the three-match series alive.

England must regroup quickly to avoid another series defeat.

Recent Struggles
England’s ODI decline has seen them lose three consecutive series, including two against the West Indies and a 3-2 defeat to Australia in 2024. Their win-loss record since July 2019 now stands at 29-30, highlighting inconsistent form. Despite new leadership under Brendon McCullum, the team struggles to capitalize on strong starts. In Nagpur, a blistering opening was squandered as India clawed back to secure a 42-run victory.

Mahmood’s Rallying Cry
Pacer Saqib Mahmood, a consistent bright spot for England, emphasized the need to sustain pressure against India’s top-ranked side. “Starting strong isn’t enough here. We need to fight harder and seize key moments,” he said.

Saqib Mahmood stressed the importance of resilience.

With the Champions Trophy looming in Pakistan, Mahmood added, “Playing in India sharpens our skills. We need to be ready for high-pressure games in the tournament.”

Injury Concerns
Wicketkeeper-batsman Jamie Smith remains doubtful for Sunday after a calf strain. England’s medical team hopes he’ll return for the final match in Ahmedabad. As backup, Somerset’s Tom Banton—who dominated the ILT20 with 493 runs—could be recalled. Banton offers explosive batting and wicketkeeping insurance.

Jamie Smith’s fitness is under close observation.

Probable Lineup
England may field:

• Phil Salt (wk), Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Jordan Bethell, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Saqib Mahmood.

The Road Ahead
England’s challenge is twofold: halting their losing streak and building momentum ahead of the Champions Trophy. With India’s dominance at home, Buttler’s men must deliver under pressure—or face another painful chapter in their post-2019 slump.

For now, all eyes are on Cuttack. Can England rise to the occasion?

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