The Team India is poised to embark on a new chapter in Test cricket with a five-match series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. Under the leadership of newly appointed Test captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Rishabh Pant, Team India is transitioning after the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. This fresh era in Team India demands a balanced and adaptable playing XI suited to English conditions.
Here’s the likely Team India playing XI for the 1st Test against England:
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal: The young left-hander has shown remarkable consistency recently and is expected to open the batting alongside KL Rahul, who adds valuable experience. Rahul, having performed well in previous England tours, provides stability at the top.
2. KL Rahul: With his solid technique and prior success in England, Rahul is likely to partner Jaiswal at the top, anchoring the innings early on.
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3. Sai Sudharsan / Karun Nair: Both are technically sound options for Team India. However, Karun Nair’s recent double century for India A against England Lions in Canterbury might give him an edge over Sudharsan for the No. 3 spot.
4. Shubman Gill: Gill, primarily a top-order batter, could be promoted to No. 4 to fill the void left by Kohli. His move to this position may be pivotal in shaping India’s batting lineup and could elevate his Test career.
5. Rishabh Pant: Known for his aggressive batting, Pant is expected to play a key role with the bat during the series, providing counterattacking options in the middle order.
6. Ravindra Jadeja: Jadeja’s all-round skills will be vital, offering both batting stability and crucial spin bowling in English conditions.
7. Nitish Kumar Reddy: The young all-rounder can provide depth in batting and pace options with his bowling, adding versatility to the lineup.
8. Shardul Thakur: His previous performances have shown his capability to contribute with both bat and ball, making him an essential player for this series.
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9. Jasprit Bumrah: As the spearhead of India’s bowling attack, Bumrah’s fitness and form make him a lethal weapon, especially in English conditions.
10. Mohammed Siraj: With growing experience, Siraj is expected to lead the pace attack alongside Bumrah, offering consistency and rhythm.
11. Prasidh Krishna / Arshdeep Singh / Akashdeep: Among these, Prasidh Krishna’s impressive performance in the Sydney Test against Australia might give him the edge for the third pace spot. The others are also strong options, providing depth to the pace attack.