India’s cricket team faces a new era. The upcoming five-match Test series against England, starting June 20, 2025, in Leeds, marks a transitional phase. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket, a fresh squad is poised to take on Ben Stokes’ England in the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. Selectors are expected to announce the official team by late May, but predictions suggest a blend of youth and experience.
Leadership and Top Order
Shubman Gill emerges as the frontrunner to captain India. The young batter, with limited leadership experience, led India in five T20Is in Zimbabwe in 2024. He’s likely to bat at No. 3, anchoring the lineup. Yashasvi Jaiswal will open, paired with B Sai Sudharsan, who’s being considered to replace Sharma. Abhimanyu Easwaran is another option for the opening slot, offering domestic consistency.
KL Rahul, a versatile batter, could slot into the middle order or open if needed. Karun Nair, making a potential comeback, and Rishabh Pant, the wicketkeeper, add depth. Pant’s aggressive batting will be crucial in England’s swinging conditions.
All-Rounders Steal the Show
Ravindra Jadeja remains a cornerstone. His 527 runs and 48 wickets in 2024 underline his value. The all-rounder’s spin and lower-order runs are vital overseas. Nitish Kumar Reddy, fresh from a century in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, is a rising star. His all-round skills make him a strong candidate. Washington Sundar, replacing the retired Ravichandran Ashwin, offers spin-bowling depth. Shardul Thakur, with a stellar domestic season, bolsters the all-rounder pool.
Pace Attack to Lead the Charge
Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead the bowling. His pace and accuracy thrive in England’s conditions. Mohammed Shami, returning from injury, adds experience. Mohammed Siraj, despite form concerns, benefits from England’s seam-friendly pitches. Prasidh Krishna rounds out the pace unit, offering height and bounce.
Challenges and Expectations
India’s squad faces tough challenges. The retirements of Sharma and Kohli leave big gaps. Gill’s captaincy is untested in Tests, and the top order must adapt to England’s swinging ball. However, the team’s depth, with all-rounders and a potent pace attack, offers hope. The series, spanning June to August, will test India’s resolve in their quest for World Test Championship glory.
Predicted Squad
- Abhimanyu Easwaran
- B Sai Sudharsan
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- KL Rahul
- Karun Nair
- Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
