Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar and Prasidh Krishna [Source: AFP]India's three-match ODI series against England, starting on July 14, is expected to answer one of the biggest selection questions before the upcoming ICC events. While Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are almost certain to lead India's pace attack, the race for the third fast bowler has become much more interesting.Initially, Harshit Rana looked like the strongest contender to complete the pace trio. However, the fast bowler was ruled out of the entire ODI series after suffering an injury, with the BCCI announcing his replacement, Prince Yadav.That leaves India with three realistic options fighting for one place. Experienced campaigner Prasidh Krishna, promising seamer Gurnoor Brar, and the newly-added Prince Yadav. All three offer different strengths, making this one of the toughest selection calls for Gautam Gambhir and the team management.Which Pacer Deserves A Spot Against England In ODIs?Why Prasidh Krishna's ODI numbers still make him a serious contenderOn paper, Prasidh Krishna has the strongest ODI record among the available options. The tall fast bowler has taken 45 wickets in 25 ODIs at an average of 25.77, an economy rate of 5.91, and a strike rate of 26.1. He also has three four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul, proving that he can win matches with the ball.His numbers in 2026 have been even better. Prasidh has picked up eight wickets in four ODIs at an average of 20.87, including a brilliant five-wicket haul against Afghanistan.Experience is another factor working in his favour. Having already played ODIs in England, South Africa, Australia and the West Indies, Prasidh Krishna understands how to bowl in overseas conditions.Recent poor numbers add to Krishna's woesHowever, recent performances cannot be ignored. Despite his strong ODI numbers, Prasidh struggled badly during India's T20I tour of England. He managed only one wicket in two matches while conceding runs at an economy rate of 9.14. Before that, he also went wicketless in Ireland.Although T20Is and ODIs are different formats, the lack of rhythm with the new ball on English pitches could make the selectors think twice before handing him another opportunity immediately.Also Read- India Players Who Might Not Get A Single Match In ODI Series Vs EnglandHarshit Rana would have been the obvious choice before injuryBefore injury struck, Harshit Rana appeared to be the frontrunner for India's third pacer's spot. His ODI record has been impressive, with 26 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 27.38. Against England alone, he has claimed six wickets in three ODIs, showing that he can trouble their batting line-up.More importantly, Harshit had regained form after missing IPL 2026 through injury. He picked up four wickets in two T20Is against Ireland at an economy rate of 5.86, before adding three wickets in two T20Is against England. Gautam Gambhir has also shown plenty of faith in Harshit since his Kolkata Knight Riders days, making him a natural selection had he been available.Why Gurnoor Brar suddenly has a golden opportunityAmong all the fast bowlers in the squad, Gurnoor Brar remains the biggest wildcard. The left-arm pacer has played only three ODIs, but his performances have been extremely encouraging. He has taken seven wickets at an average of 19.42, an economy rate of 5.95, and a strike rate below 20.Gurnoor has consistently attacked the stumps and generated awkward bounce, something that could become even more effective in English conditions.He has also impressed the selectors outside white-ball cricket. During the recent India A tour, Gurnoor produced an outstanding performance in the second unofficial Test against Sri Lanka A, claiming 10 wickets in the match, including figures of 4/77 and 6/68. Those performances strengthened his case as a bowler capable of making an impact whenever given responsibility. Unlike Prasidh, Gurnoor Brar enters the series with confidence and momentum firmly on his side.Prince Yadav enters the race with T20I backingHarshit Rana's injury has opened the door for Prince Yadav to make his ODI debut in England. Although he has played only two ODIs, Prince has already picked up three wickets. He has also impressed in T20Is, taking five wickets in four matches, including a three-wicket haul.The management clearly rates his ability to bowl with the new ball and attack the stumps, which explains why he was chosen as Harshit's replacement instead of recalling another experienced fast bowler, probably because of his raw pace ability and the IPL 2026 performance.Prince may not have the experience of Prasidh, but his recent performances suggest he is ready for bigger opportunities.Conclusion: Who should get the green signal?If Harshit Rana had been fit, this debate probably would not have existed. His recent comeback, improving rhythm and Gambhir's trust would have made him India's preferred third seamer.With Harshit unavailable, the decision becomes much more balanced. Prasidh Krishna still has the best ODI record among the available options and remains India's safest choice on experience alone. However, his recent struggles in England cannot be ignored, especially after failing to make an impact in the T20Is.That opens the door for Gurnoor Brar and Prince Yadav.Gurnoor brings a different angle as a left-arm seamer, arrives in excellent form after his India A performances, and has already made an impressive start to his ODI career. Prince, meanwhile, has earned his place through consistent performances and now has a genuine chance to make his England ODI debut.Considering current form, momentum and recent performances, Gurnoor Brar appears slightly ahead in the race, with Prince Yadav not far behind. It would not be surprising if the Indian team management rotates both bowlers across the three-match series to assess their readiness for bigger assignments.Also Read- Jay Shah's ICC Takes Key Decision On ODI Cricket's Future
