The much-anticipated five-match Test series between India and England begins on Friday, June 20, at Headingley, Leeds, marking the start of a new ICC World Test Championship cycle for both sides. With fresh faces, new leadership, and high expectations, both teams will be eager to set the tone early in what promises to be a riveting contest between two cricketing giants.
The opening Test also marks a new chapter in Indian cricket, with Shubman Gill captaining the Test side for the first time, while England welcomes the return of experienced campaigners and a few new names.
England’s Playing XI: Woakes and Carse Return
England have named their playing XI for the first Test, making two changes from the side that played against Zimbabwe. Chris Woakes, returning to the red-ball setup after his last Test appearance in December 2024, slots back into the team alongside Brydon Carse, who has recovered from a toe injury that sidelined him during the ICC Champions Trophy.
Woakes showed decent rhythm during the unofficial Test against India A, while Carse’s raw pace adds variety to England’s attack. With a solid blend of experience and youth, England will look to exploit familiar conditions at Headingley.
Weather Outlook: Mostly Favorable, Some Interruptions Expected
Day 1 of the Test is expected to be mostly dry and warm, offering ideal conditions for a full day’s play. However, Day 2 could be disrupted, with a 60% chance of rain forecast for the afternoon. While Day 3 brings early showers, the weather is set to clear, and Days 4 and 5 look more promising, with only minor chances of rain.
The pitch, combined with the fluctuating weather, may offer something for both seamers and batters, making conditions potentially unpredictable as the match progresses.
Manjrekar on Gill-Gambhir Combo: “Better Chemistry Than Before”
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes the new Gill-Gambhir pairing at the helm could breathe fresh energy into India’s red-ball campaign. With stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stepping away from Test cricket, Manjrekar suggests that Gambhir, known for his no-nonsense approach, will thrive alongside a young captain with a nothing-to-lose mindset.
“This is like the '90s again—you go in without the weight of massive expectations,” he said, drawing parallels to the rebuilding phase of a previous generation.
Mukesh Kumar Reacts After Harshit Rana’s Surprise Inclusion
In a late development, fast bowler Harshit Rana has been added to India’s Test squad following his performance in the India A vs England Lions series. Rana picked up 1/99 in 27 overs, and while not spectacular, his raw pace has impressed selectors.
The decision, however, raised eyebrows, especially from Mukesh Kumar, who posted a cryptic message on Instagram: “Karma bides its time… it always gets payback.” Mukesh, who took 3/92 in the same match and dismissed key batters, may feel hard done by, sparking speculation about internal selection dynamics ahead of a crucial Test series.
