
- Fixture: England vs West Indies, 2nd ODI
- Date: Sunday, June 1, 2025
- Venue: Sophia Gardens, Cardiff
Match Preview
The second ODI between England and West Indies at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, promises to be a fascinating contest as both teams look to assert themselves in this three-match series. England, under the fresh leadership of Harry Brook, are coming off a commanding performance in the opening ODI, where they demolished the West Indies by a massive 238 runs at Edgbaston. Jacob Bethell was the star, smashing 82 from 53 balls, while Brook himself contributed a composed fifty and equaled the ODI record for five catches by an outfielder. England posted a formidable 400 for eight, with every batter chipping in, and then bundled out the West Indies for just 162, exposing the visitors’ vulnerabilities against quality seam and spin in English conditions.
The West Indies, meanwhile, will be desperate to bounce back after their dismal showing in the first ODI. Despite coming into the series with confidence following a series win over Ireland, where their batters racked up scores of 352 and 385 in two matches, they looked completely out of sorts in Birmingham. Their only resistance came from a 10th-wicket stand, which merely avoided the ignominy of their lowest ODI total against England. The Caribbean side will need to regroup quickly, especially as they continue to miss the services of all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford and have been without the explosive Andre Russell due to injury, though Alzarri Joseph is available after returning from suspension.
England’s recent ODI form has been mixed, with only nine wins in their last 26 matches prior to this series, and a disappointing group-stage exit in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. However, the new leadership and the injection of young talent like Bethell and Will Jacks seem to have rejuvenated the squad. Injuries remain a concern, with fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson both ruled out for the series. Luke Wood has been called up as a replacement, and the bowling attack will rely heavily on the likes of Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood, and Matthew Potts.
For the West Indies, the focus will be on their young guns and the experienced heads to step up. Shai Hope, the captain, needs to anchor the innings, while the likes of Evin Lewis, Brandon King, and the promising Jewel Andrew must find a way to counter England’s varied attack. The bowling unit, led by Alzarri Joseph and supported by Gudakesh Motie and Jayden Seales, will have to be far more disciplined after leaking runs in the first game. The absence of key all-rounders puts extra pressure on their top order to deliver.
Key Players
England:
- Harry Brook: The new captain started his tenure with a fifty and sharp fielding. His leadership and batting will be crucial.
- Jacob Bethell: Announced himself with a blistering 82 in the first ODI. His aggressive batting at the top can set the tone.
- Jos Buttler: The experienced wicketkeeper-batter remains a match-winner in the middle order.
- Adil Rashid: England’s premier spinner, always a threat in the middle overs.
West Indies:
- Shai Hope: The captain and anchor, his ability to build an innings is vital for the visitors.
- Evin Lewis: Capable of destructive starts, Lewis can put pressure on England early.
- Gudakesh Motie: The left-arm spinner is emerging as a key player, both with ball and potentially with the bat.
- Alzarri Joseph: Back from suspension, his pace and aggression are crucial for West Indies’ hopes.
Prediction
England look revitalized under Harry Brook and, buoyed by their thumping win in the first ODI, will start as clear favorites in Cardiff. The West Indies have the talent to challenge, especially if their top order fires, but their bowling and fielding must improve dramatically. Expect England’s depth and home advantage to prevail, but the West Indies are capable of making it competitive if they regroup.
Predicted Result: England to win the 2nd ODI.
Betting Markets & Odds
Market | Selection | Odds | Bet Now |
---|---|---|---|
Match Winner | England | 1/10 | Bet Now |
Match Winner | West Indies | 11/2 | Bet Now |
Top England Batter | Jacob Bethell | 13/2 | Bet Now |
Top West Indies Batter | Shai Hope | 11/4 | Bet Now |
Top West Indies Batter | Keacy Carty | 6/1 | Bet Now |
Top West Indies Bowler | Gudakesh Motie | 4/1 | Bet Now |
Series Correct Score | England 2-1 | 6/4 | Bet Now |
Odds are subject to change. Please check the linked site for the latest markets and prices.
Get ready for a high-stakes clash in Cardiff as England look to seal the series, while the West Indies fight to keep it alive!