BCCI Set to Announce Test Squad for England Tour: Key Selections and Surprises

The BCCI is preparing to announce the Test squad for the upcoming tour of England, with significant discussions surrounding the captaincy and player selections. Key players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant are expected to feature prominently, while the competition for the middle order and opening partnerships remains fierce. Notably, Mohammed Shami's exclusion is anticipated due to recent performance issues. The squad will likely include a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, making this announcement highly anticipated among cricket fans.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 24, 2025, 07:30 IST

Upcoming Announcement of Test Squad

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is poised to reveal the Test squad for the upcoming tour of England tomorrow. A significant point of discussion will be the choice of captain. The BCCI is expected to unveil an 18-member squad, indicating that 17 players will be selected, although some anticipated names may not make the final cut.

Opening Partnerships and Middle Order Contenders

Yashasvi Jaiswal is confirmed as one of the openers, but the identity of his partner remains uncertain. KL Rahul previously opened in Australia, yet other contenders like Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan are also in the mix. Abhimanyu Easwaran is less likely to be included, as the squad is expected to feature four openers.

One of Gill, Rahul, or Sudharsan will likely take the opening slot, while the other two are expected to fill the third and fourth batting positions. The fifth position appears to be the most competitive, with Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shreyas Iyer vying for it. Although Sarfaraz was part of the squad for the Australia series, Iyer's performance in the Ranji Trophy has not outshone that of Nair or Sarfaraz.

Key Players in the Middle Order

Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja are anticipated to occupy the sixth and seventh spots in the batting order. Dhruv Jurel is expected to serve as the backup wicketkeeper, having outperformed Ishan Kishan in India A matches. Washington Sundar is likely to be included as the second spin all-rounder, given the dry conditions expected in England.

Fast Bowlers and the Exclusion of Shami

The Indian team is expected to select five fast bowlers along with one spinner. Shardul Thakur and Mukesh Kumar are likely to lead the pace attack, making five pacers sufficient for the squad. Mohammed Shami's absence is anticipated, as he has struggled with form and rhythm, which is crucial for effective bowling.

Jasprit Bumrah is set to spearhead the pace attack, with Mohammed Siraj as a strong second option, particularly due to his swing bowling, which is advantageous in English conditions. Prasidh Krishna has also shown promise, while Akash Deep and Harshit Rana may round out the pace contingent.

Potential Inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be considered for selection, as spinners can play a vital role on England's dry pitches. While Jadeja is expected to be a key player, Kuldeep's more aggressive spin style could make him a valuable asset, potentially serving as a long-term replacement for Ashwin.

Probable India Test Squad for England

Batters: Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Sai Sudharsan, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk)

All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shardul Thakur

Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav