A new chapter in Indian Test cricket is set to unfold today at Headingley, Leeds, as India squares off against England in the first of a highly anticipated five-Test series. Under the fresh leadership of Shubman Gill, and notably without the services of seasoned campaigners like Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli (all having recently retired from Test cricket), India faces an uphill task against Ben Stokes’ formidable English side.
The series marks the beginning of the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for both teams. For India, it’s a significant transition, with Gill, at just 25 years old, taking over the captaincy after Rohit Sharma’s retirement last month. Rishabh Pant has been named as his vice-captain and confirmed that Gill will bat at the crucial No. 4 position.
India’s last Test series win on English soil dates back to 2007 under the captaincy of Rahul Dravid, making another victory long overdue. The team will need to draw upon collective strength and resilience to overcome a confident England side, known for their aggressive “Bazball” approach under Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum.
The absence of a bowling maestro like Ravichandran Ashwin, who has been a pillar of India’s Test attack for years, presents a significant challenge for the spin department. While India boasts a blend of experience with players like Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah (though Bumrah may miss some matches), alongside new faces, the young squad will be tested in demanding English conditions.
The Headingley pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest, initially favoring batters but with potential for spinners as the match progresses. Overcast conditions could also bring the seam bowlers into play.
Cricket enthusiasts are keenly awaiting to see how the new-look Indian team adapts to the challenges and if Shubman Gill can inspire his side to break the 18-year drought for a Test series win in England.
