Former India Head Coach Ravi Shastri has revealed his preferred playing XI for India's crucial first Test match against England at Headingley, commencing on June 20, 2025. This series marks the start of a new chapter for the Indian Test team, led by debutant captain Shubman Gill, following the retirements of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The team faces a challenging assignment against the world's second-ranked team in unfamiliar conditions, marking the beginning of their campaign in the new World Test Championship cycle.
Shastri's choices reflect a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, aiming to fill the significant void left by the two legendary batsmen. For the opening combination, Shastri is advocating for a left-right combination of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul to take the crease. He emphasized Rahul's experience and previous success in England as crucial factors. Rahul opened during India's last tour of England, scoring a century and having a successful series.
At the crucial number three position, Shastri is placing his bet on Sai Sudharsan. Shastri has been impressed by what he has seen of the youngster and believes that this tour will provide valuable exposure for him. Sudharsan's impressive performances in domestic cricket and the IPL have made him a strong contender for a Test debut. Following Sudharsan, Shastri has Shubman Gill, the new captain, to bat at number 4.
For the important number five and six spots, Shastri is backing Karun Nair and Rishabh Pant respectively. Nair's consistent performances in domestic cricket have earned him a recall to the national side, and Shastri believes he has worked hard to get back into the team. Pant's aggressive batting style and wicket-keeping skills make him a valuable asset to the team.
Ravindra Jadeja is set to take the role of the primary spinner at number seven, followed by Shardul Thakur at eight. Shastri believes that India should go with four fast bowlers. The inclusion of Shardul Thakur over Nitish Reddy will depend on how many overs the team expects him to bowl.
For the pace attack, Shastri proposes Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah as certainties. The third seamer spot will depend on the conditions. Prasidh Krishna is likely to get the nod, but if it's overcast, Arshdeep Singh could be brought into the playing eleven.
Ravi Shastri’s India XI for the first Test:
Shastri's choices indicate a willingness to invest in youth while also valuing experience in crucial roles. The composition of the pace attack will depend on the conditions at Headingley, with both Prasidh Krishna and Arshdeep Singh in contention for the final spot. The former coach's insights will undoubtedly add to the anticipation surrounding this high-profile series, as India looks to begin a new era with a strong showing against England.
