The highly anticipated five-Test series between England and India is set to begin today, June 20, 2025, at Headingley Cricket Ground in Leeds. This series also marks the start of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle for both teams. Cricket fans around the world are eager to tune in and witness the exciting contest for the newly-named Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Global TV and Live Streaming Options
- In India: The Test series will be broadcast on the Sony Sports Network, encompassing channels like Sony Sports 1, Sony Sports 1 HD, Sony Sports 3, Sony Sports 3 HD, Sony Sports 4, Sony Sports 4 HD, Sony Sports 5, and Sony Sports 5 HD. Live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar website and app. JioCinema app will also broadcast the match and no charges apply for watching the live match on this app.
- In the UK: Sky Sports Cricket (Sky Sports Main Event HD, Sky Sports Cricket HD) will provide live TV coverage. Sky Go and Now will offer live streaming options. Coverage begins at 10am BST on Friday, June 20, with play scheduled to begin at 11am BST.
- In Australia: Fox Sports 501 will broadcast the live action. Kayo Sports will also stream the match, offering commitment-free plans and a 7-day free trial for new users.
- In the USA and Canada: Willow TV will broadcast the series across TV and digital platforms. In Canada, you can also check your cable provider to see if Willow is available or subscribe to the service’s own streaming platform.
- In South Africa: SuperSport will broadcast the series live on Channel 212 (SuperSport Cricket) and 201 (SuperSport Grandstand), with digital coverage available on the DSTV app.
Match Timings (IST)
The first Test match between India and England will begin at 3:30 PM IST. The toss will take place at 3:00 PM IST. Here's a breakdown of the session timings:
- First Session: 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
- Lunch Break: 5:30 PM to 6:10 PM
- Second Session: 6:10 PM to 8:10 PM
- Tea Break: 8:10 PM to 8:30 PM
- Third Session: 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM
The aim is to complete 90 overs each day, weather permitting.
Team Dynamics
This series marks a significant transition for the Indian cricket team, with Shubman Gill leading the Test side for the first time after the retirements of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. At 25, Gill is one of India's youngest full-time Test captains, tasked with rebuilding the team while maintaining high standards.
England, led by Ben Stokes, is aware of India's rebuilding phase but will not underestimate the visitors. Key players like Joe Root and Harry Brook will anchor their batting lineup.
Additional Notes
- The last time India toured England in 2021-22, the series ended in a 2-2 draw.
- 2007 was the last time India won a Test series on English soil.
- Ollie Pope has been named vice-captain for England.
- Brydon Carse will be making his first home cap for England.
- Rishabh Pant mentioned that it felt "so good" to know that India would not be facing James Anderson or Stuart Broad.
