India Gears Up for Test Series in England

The Indian men’s cricket team is preparing for a highly anticipated five-match Test series in England next month. The initial match of the series is scheduled to commence on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.

The last time India secured a Test series victory in England was in 2007, led by Rahul Dravid, where they won the three-match series 1-0.

Failing to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final, this upcoming series marks the beginning of their journey in the WTC 2025–27 cycle. They aim to start strong and achieve a rare Test series triumph on English grounds.

The official team announcement is expected shortly, with Rohit Sharma likely to remain as captain.

The 38-year-old opener had a poor performance in India’s previous Test assignment, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia between November 2024 and January 2025, scoring only 31 runs in five innings.

Despite speculation about his future in the format due to his form, he is now poised to lead the team in England.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, India’s top-ranked Test batter, will likely join him at the top of the batting order, along with Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli.

KL Rahul is also expected to be included, potentially as a backup wicketkeeper. A notable name to watch is B Sai Sudharsan from Tamil Nadu, who has been in excellent form and is considered a backup opener.

Karun Nair, known for his Test triple-century against England and a strong 2024–25 domestic season, may return to the national squad. The right-hander last played a Test match in 2017.

Nitish Kumar Reddy from Andhra, who played as India’s primary fast-bowling all-rounder in the series against Australia, made a positive impression and is expected to keep his place for the England tour.

Following Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, Ravindra Jadeja will be India’s main spin option. Washington Sundar, who has consistently performed well in recent Test matches, is also anticipated to be part of the squad.

Jasprit Bumrah, who stood out against Australia with 32 wickets, the most by an Indian pacer in a Test series, is set to lead the pace attack.

After recovering from a four-month injury, he played in IPL 2025 for Mumbai Indians and is now ready to head the bowling attack in England.

The five-Test series will take place at renowned venues: Headingley (Leeds), Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval.

Likely India Squad for England Test Series:
  • Rohit Sharma (C)
  • Jasprit Bumrah (VC)
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal
  • Shubman Gill
  • Virat Kohli
  • B Sai Sudharsan
  • KL Rahul
  • Rishabh Pant (WK)
  • Dhruv Jurel (WK)
  • Karun Nair
  • Nitish Kumar Reddy
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Washington Sundar
  • Mohammed Siraj
  • Mohammed Shami
  • Akash Deep
  • Prasidh Krishna