Cricket fans are bracing for a historic summer as India take on England in a five-match Test series beginning June 20 at Headingley. But this time, it’s not just another series—it’s the dawn of a new chapter for Indian cricket. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retiring from the longest format, India will step onto the field without two of its modern-day greats for the first time in over a decade.
Gill or Bumrah: Who Leads India Forward?
The biggest question heading into the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 opener is: who will captain India? Shubman Gill, long groomed as a future leader, is emerging as the frontrunner. But Jasprit Bumrah, who famously led India to a memorable win in the 2022 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, remains a strong contender. The final call could come down to balancing batting leadership with tactical acumen on the field.
Probable India XI: Bold Calls, Fresh Faces
Probable XI:Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sudharsan, Gill, Pant (wk), Jadeja, Nitish Reddy, Bumrah, Shami, Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
The opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul brings a mix of aggression and experience. Jaiswal, who tore into England’s bowling in 2024 with 712 runs, looks locked in. Rahul’s solid technique makes him a reliable partner in swinging English conditions.
At No. 3, India might make its boldest move—handing a debut to Tamil Nadu’s B Sai Sudharsan. After a standout domestic season, the left-hander’s temperament and technique seem tailor-made for Dukes-ball challenges.
Shubman Gill is set to inherit Kohli’s prized No. 4 slot. Having already played 17 Tests at No. 3, Gill’s transition to a more senior batting role will be closely watched.
Rishabh Pant, back in full flow, takes the gloves and walks in at No. 5. Known for his game-changing knocks, Pant’s counterattack could be vital against England’s Bazball approach.
All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja continues to be India’s spin mainstay, while Nitish Reddy adds firepower with the bat and another pace option—though Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur are breathing down his neck.
Thakur’s exceptional Ranji Trophy form could still swing things in his favour, especially if India leans on a seam-heavy all-rounder to strengthen the lower order.
Pace to Match Bazball
India’s strategy for this series is clear: fight fire with fire. England’s Bazball philosophy thrives on aggressive strokeplay, but India’s pace trio—Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj—brings reverse swing, sharp bounce, and relentless intensity.
Prasidh Krishna, known for extracting bounce even on flat decks, is expected to edge out Akash Deep for the final seamer’s slot at Headingley.
The WTC Road Begins
This series isn’t just about beating England in their own backyard—it marks the beginning of India’s campaign in the 2025-27 World Test Championship. With new leaders, debutants, and a brave new strategy, India is signalling its intent to build a team for the future.
No Kohli. No Rohit. But plenty to look forward to.
Cricket’s next great transition story begins now.
