Strauss needs a rest because he seems to be in a rut of performing badly and seems unable to get beyond 40 without forcing a ball which isn't there and presenting a chance.
On to the topic of the ODIs, I think it is strange that India did not have their ODI Tri Series against Kenya and Sri Lanka A first so that they could uncover new talent for the England ODI series.
I think the ODIs will depend largely on which Munaf Patel shows up, the quick wicket taker or the containment bowler. Obviously, the former would be ideal but have injuries damaged his body permanently? Sachin Tendulkar will also play a pivotal role, with fielding restrictions among other things preventing England from stopping any sort of leg side shot as they did in the tests, he will be free to pull the ball. Remember, that is still his main scoring shot, the brilliant way in which he utilised it in the Future Cup brought flashbacks to the 'old Tendulkar'. India's bowling is weak, Agarkar and Zaheer are inconsistant and Chawla is young and inexperienced. Only Powar has a good consistant record in ODIs but even he does not take wickets at quite the rate needed. India lack a Shaun Tait-like wicket taker who you can count on for two wickets, with the cost being a moot point.
On to England, I feel they may be too reliant on Kevin Pietersen if they are to score anything above 275 since he seems to be the only batsman who can force the rate in ODIs. Even Matt Prior, who scores brisky in tests with a strike rate of around 65, cannot seem to score more agressively in ODIs. Flintoff's bowling and batting will be integral to England success as not only can he score quickly but he can also quell a flow of runs from the opposition. England's bowlers are largely punts, in terms of selection. None are highly proven at List A level and merely the potential of a Stuart Broad is noted in his selection. It remains to be seen as to whether these unproven bowlers with poor records can perform in the seven ODIs. I cannot see the squad changing too much for the last three ODIs for England.