A new chapter in Indian Test cricket begins as Shubman Gill leads a revamped side in their quest to end an 18-year drought for a Test series win in England. With stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retiring from the red-ball format, Gill steps in not just as captain but also takes on the critical No.4 batting position, a slot previously dominated by legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Kohli. The 25-year-old, with a Test average of 35, faces the challenge of proving himself on English soil, where his performance has so far been underwhelming, averaging under 15 in three Tests.
Gill, however, is confident and committed, emphasizing leadership by example both on and off the field. Supporting him will be vice-captain Rishabh Pant, back in action after a miraculous recovery from a near-fatal car crash in 2022. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal adds flair to the top order. Yet, it’s not just the batting that sees a shift — India’s bowling attack also enters a transition phase. With Ravichandran Ashwin retired and Mohammed Shami still recovering from ankle surgery, the pressure will be on Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to feature in only three of the five Tests due to workload management.
Concerns about India’s ability to claim 20 wickets per match are matched by similar doubts around England’s bowling resources. With the retirement of James Anderson and Stuart Broad — who together accounted for 1,308 Test wickets — England’s bowling lineup enters unfamiliar territory. Wicketkeeper Pant acknowledged their absence as a relief, but also cautioned against underestimating the current England attack, which still holds plenty of firepower despite lacking experience.
England’s fast bowling unit faces its own injury woes. Speedsters Jofra Archer and Mark Wood are sidelined for the Headingley Test, paving the way for Durham pacer Brydon Carse to make his home debut. Chris Woakes, recently back from an ankle injury, will lead the seam attack. Carse admitted the transition offers new players a chance to make a mark, saying, “It’s a good opportunity for less experienced bowlers to step up.” Meanwhile, Stuart Broad, speaking to The Times, voiced skepticism: “With all the injuries they’ve got — where are England getting 20 wickets?”
