Even the media must be a little weary reporting about the turmoil about Ravi Shastri's appointment and speculations about who calls the shots within the team now. So some action on the field would be a welcome aberration to all the speculative analysis.

Focus back on the teams. Alex Hales will be the focus when England bat, especially when England bat first. Going by his recent form in domestic cricket, especially the shortest version, he looks likely to carry England home on his own. And with India's batting form suspect barring exceptions like Dhoni, England looks good to win the first (albeit second fixture) match of the series.

For Team India, knowing Dhoni does not like to throw too many surprises, Dhawan and Rohit should open and are expected to flounder at the top. If Kohli comes to the party then maybe India may post a total in excess of 275. Otherwise, it is left to chance. Such is Kohli's influence in the 50 over format. Rahane bats at 4 and Raina at 5. And yes, Jadeja at 7. There might be surprise selections in the bowling department (influence of Mr Shastri ??)..Maybe a Dhawal Kulkarni or Karn Sharma gets game. But if Dhoni is indeed the boss as Shastri says, then both will not play.