Shastri Weighs In: Prasidh vs. Arshdeep Contingent on Conditions

Former head coach Ravi Shastri unveiled his projected India playing XI on Tuesday for the inaugural Test of the five-match series against England. The match is slated to commence on June 20 at Yorkshire Cricket Ground in Leeds.

Following the departures of seasoned players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the two-time World Test Championship (WTC) runners-up are poised to begin a fresh chapter under the stewardship of Shubman Gill.

India is set to launch its WTC 2025-27 campaign with a demanding tour of England, currently holding the second position in the ICC Men’s Test Rankings.

During a conversation with Crystal Arnold on The ICC Review, Shastri shared his perspective on the ideal XI for the visitors in the series opener at Leeds.

To establish a left-right batting combination at the top, Shastri selected Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul as openers, followed by the promising Sai Sudharsan.

“It would be (Yashasvi) Jaiswal, and partnering with him will be KL Rahul, given the significance of this tour for him. He stands as the most seasoned batsman,” Shastri stated while outlining his choices.

“He previously opened during India’s tour of England, scoring a century and performing well throughout the tour. I anticipate him to open the innings again.

“At number three, I would opt for the young talent, Sai Sudarshan.

“From what I’ve observed, he’s remarkably impressive. This tour will offer him valuable exposure.”

He then endorsed India’s newly appointed Test captain to bat at the fourth position, succeeded by Karun Nair, who also possesses experience in county cricket, and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant at six.

“In all likelihood, contingent on current form, Karun Nair will take the spot. He bats at five; it has been a considerable period since he last represented India. Rishabh Pant will be at six,” Shastri elaborated.

“I believe he (Nair) has demonstrated immense dedication, earning his way back into the team. His run accumulation in first-class cricket is truly remarkable.

“I encountered him during an IPL match and advised him to not just knock on the door but to forcefully enter and secure his place in the side. I believe he has done precisely that. The sheer volume of runs he has amassed has prompted the selectors to consider him and offer him a spot.”

Ravi Shastri promptly chose Ravindra Jadeja at seven, as India’s primary spinner, while suggesting that the decision between Prasidh Krishna and left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh for the eighth position could hinge on the prevailing conditions.

He favored Shardul Thakur over Nitish Kumar Reddy in India’s pace attack, which would also include the seasoned Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.

Ravi Shastri’s India Playing XI for first England Test:
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal
  • KL Rahul
  • Sai Sudharsan
  • Shubman Gill (c)
  • Karun Nair
  • Rishabh Pant (vc & wk)
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Shardul Thakur
  • Jasprit Bumrah
  • Mohammed Siraj
  • Prasidh Krishna / Arshdeep Singh