The India-England Test series of 2025 has already begun with anticipation. Following the retirements of key players, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin, from Test cricket, India's team is undergoing a significant transformation.
Shardul Thakur's potential inclusion in the squad has been a major talking point leading up to the series. Thakur's domestic performance in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, where he scored 505 runs and took 35 wickets, has strengthened his case for a Test comeback. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset, especially with India looking for a reliable fourth pacer. In the recent intra-squad match in Beckenham, Thakur showcased his skills by taking wickets, further solidifying his chances of being in the playing XI. However, he faces competition from Nitish Kumar Reddy, a young batting all-rounder, for the same spot.
Rohit Sharma's absence from the series is a notable change. After leading India to victory in the Champions Trophy 2025, Sharma has reportedly opted for a break, with his form in red-ball cricket being a concern. This decision has led to Shubman Gill being appointed as the new Test captain, marking the beginning of a new era for the Indian team. Despite Sharma's absence, his contributions to Indian cricket, especially his performance in the 2021 England tour, where he scored 368 runs, including a century at the Oval, are fondly remembered.
India's recent performance in England has been mixed. While they came close to winning the Test series in 2021, the series ended in a 2-2 draw after England won the final Test. India has not won a Test series in England since 2007, and the team is determined to break this drought. The series will be a part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship, adding more significance to the matches.
The India tour of England 2025 includes five Test matches, starting on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds. The subsequent matches are scheduled in Birmingham, Lord's, Manchester, and The Oval. The series presents an opportunity for young players like Shubman Gill to showcase their talent and lead the team to victory. Gill's performance in the intra-squad match, where he scored a half-century, has boosted his confidence ahead of the series. KL Rahul, who also scored a fifty in the same match, is expected to play a crucial role in the batting lineup.
As India embarks on this new chapter in England, the team aims to display resilience, skill, and determination. With a blend of experienced players and fresh talent, India hopes to rewrite history and secure a memorable Test series win on English soil. The focus will be on players like Shardul Thakur to step up and deliver match-winning performances, while the team as a whole will look to create new batting memories reminiscent of past heroes like Rahul Dravid and Ajinkya Rahane.
