England vs West Indies Preview, Prediction, news and odds: 1/6/2025

England will aim to secure the three-match One Day International (ODI) series against the West Indies when the two sides meet for the second fixture at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Sunday, 1 June 2025. The home team leads the series 1–0 after a commanding 238-run victory in the opening match at Edgbaston.

England Overview

In the first ODI, England’s batting lineup delivered an emphatic performance, registering 400 for 8 — their sixth time surpassing the 400-run mark in ODI history. Jacob Bethell emerged as the top scorer, compiling 82 runs off just 53 balls. Ben Duckett, Joe Root, and captain Harry Brook each added half-centuries, marking a confident beginning to Brook’s leadership in the format.

With the ball, England maintained control throughout the West Indies’ innings. Saqib Mahmood and Jamie Overton led the attack with three wickets apiece, while spin duo Adil Rashid and Bethell shared three more wickets between them. The visitors were dismissed for 162 in just over 26 overs.

England is likely to retain a settled side, with a top seven including Jamie Smith, Duckett, Root, Brook, Jos Buttler (wicketkeeper), Bethell, and Will Jacks. The bowling attack features Overton, Carse, Rashid, and Mahmood.

West Indies Overview

The West Indies face mounting pressure to keep the series alive following a one-sided defeat in Birmingham. Batting was a major concern, with captain Shai Hope posting the highest score of just 25. No other batter crossed the 20-run mark in a chase that faltered under sustained pressure.

On the bowling front, Jayden Seales showed promise with four wickets, while Alzarri Joseph claimed two. Spinner Gudakesh Motie managed to keep his economy rate in check, but the team’s overall inability to contain England’s top order proved costly. Matthew Forde endured a difficult outing, conceding 88 runs in eight wicketless overs.

The West Indies are expected to field a lineup featuring Brandon King, Justin Greaves, Keacy Carty, Hope (captain and wicketkeeper), Jewel Andrew, Amir Jangoo, Roston Chase, Forde, Motie, Joseph, and Seales. Adjustments in both departments may be considered to improve competitiveness.

Prediction

Sunday’s contest in Cardiff is expected to take place under cool and humid conditions, with temperatures starting around 14°C and peaking at 16°C later in the day. The pitch traditionally offers a balanced challenge for batters and bowlers, while the forecast humidity could assist seam movement early in the innings.

England has historically performed well in Cardiff and has not lost a home ODI series to the West Indies since 2007. A win in this match would not only confirm the series but also build confidence ahead of the final fixture at The Oval on Tuesday. For the West Indies, it is a must-win encounter to avoid a series defeat and salvage pride.

Prediction: We are backing England to win