Following the recent retirement of two iconic giants from the Indian Test team—Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli—Team India stands at a pivotal juncture. Their departure marks the end of an era, but also opens doors for emerging talent and strategic reinforcements.
Reports suggest that Gill could be announced as the new Test captain as early as May 23rd or 24th, signaling a shift towards a fresh leadership and a new cycle for Team India in the World Test Championship (WTC).
As Team India prepares to visit England, the team management is likely to field a potent XI aimed at relaunching their WTC campaign with renewed vigor and promising prospects.
1. Jaiswal: The Opening Hope
Jaiswal, who made his Test debut in 2023, has already made a significant impression, playing 19 matches and accumulating 1,798 runs at an impressive average of 52.9. His aggressive approach and consistent performances make him a natural choice to open the batting alongside Gill.
As the team looks to establish a strong start, Jaiswal’s ability to provide a solid foundation will be crucial in setting the tone for the innings.
2. Gill: Prince and Potential Captain
While Gill’s Test career has seen its share of ups and downs, he remains a vital component of India’s batting lineup. With 32 matches under his belt and 1,893 runs at an average of 35, Gill is eager to improve his statistics and lead by example, especially if he indeed takes up the captaincy.
His experience in the English conditions, coupled with his technical prowess, will be instrumental in anchoring the innings and providing stability.
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3. Sai: The Emerging Batting Talent
At number 3, Team India may introduce Sai, who is on the cusp of making his Test debut. Having already represented India in T20s and ODIs, Sai’s transition to Test cricket is highly anticipated. His potential to adapt quickly and perform under pressure could make him a key player in this series.
Making his debut in such a high-stakes environment could be the start of a significant Test career.
4. KL Rahul: The Versatile Middle-Order Player
KL Rahul, known for his adaptability across formats, is expected to bat at number 4. His experience on foreign pitches and a career batting average of 33.6 underpin his suitability for this role. Rahul’s ability to stabilize the middle order and provide valuable runs will be vital as India aims to build a formidable total and counter England’s bowling attack.
5. Pant: The Dynamic Wicketkeeper-Batsman
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Despite a challenging IPL 2025 season, Pant’s red-ball form remains promising. With 43 matches and 2,948 runs, Pant has proved his worth as a reliable wicketkeeper and a powerful batter. His aggressive style will be essential in boosting India’s lower middle order and adding the much-needed firepower to the team’s batting lineup.
6. Dhruv Jurel: The Rising Wicketkeeper-Batsman
A relatively new face, Dhruv Jurel has played 4 matches and scored 202 runs. His proficiency in wicketkeeping and batting against spinners makes him an ideal candidate for the 6th position. His emerging talent offers India a versatile option behind the stumps and with the bat, adding depth to the batting order.
7. Jadeja: The All-Rounder and Veteran
Ravindra Jadeja’s experience and versatility make him a cornerstone of India’s Test squad. With 80 matches, 4 centuries, and 22 fifties, Jadeja’s batting ability under pressure is invaluable.
His skillful spin bowling, especially suited for English pitches, complements his batting, offering India a balance of attack and defense. His presence provides stability and tactical flexibility.
8. Shardul Thakur: The Attacking Paceman
Shardul Thakur, known for his aggressive batting and pace bowling, is expected to feature prominently. Scoring 331 runs in 11 matches and taking 31 wickets in the same span, Shardul’s all-round capabilities make him a vital player. His ability to change the course of the game with both bat and ball provides India with an attacking edge.
9. Kuldeep Yadav: The Spin Maestro
Expected to be India’s primary spinner, Kuldeep Yadav has been outstanding with 56 wickets in just 13 matches. His chinaman bowling offers a potent weapon against the English batsmen, especially on turning pitches. Kuldeep’s wicket-taking ability and control will be critical in India’s strategy to restrict England’s batting.
10 – 11. Shami and Bumrah: The Pacing Titans
India’s pace duo, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, are instrumental in India’s bowling attack. Shami, with 229 wickets in 64 matches and an economy of 3.30, brings experience and consistency.
Bumrah’s remarkable record of 205 wickets in just 45 matches, with an economy of 2.76, makes him one of the most lethal fast bowlers in the world. Their combined skill and swing will be key in exploiting English conditions and taking crucial wickets.
Potential Playing XI of Team India for England Test Tour:
Jaiswal, Gill, Sai, KL Rahul, Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Jadeja, Shardul, Kuldeep, Shami, Bumrah
As Team India embarks on this new chapter post-Kohli and Rohit retirements, the focus will be on building a resilient, flexible, and dynamic squad capable of challenging England in their own backyard.
