India's Test Squad for England Tour Includes IPL Underperformers
India's Upcoming Test Series Against England
Starting June 20, the Indian cricket team will embark on a challenging five-match Test series against England. For this demanding tour, six players have been selected who had disappointing performances in IPL 2025. Among them, one player has been appointed as the vice-captain of the Test team. This raises the question of whether these six cricketers can deliver strong performances against the English side or if they will hinder the team's success.
The most notable name among these players is Rishabh Pant, who has been named the vice-captain of the Test squad. Alongside him, five other players struggled significantly during IPL 2025.
Concerns Over Player Selections
Rishabh Pant: As the vice-captain, Rishabh Pant faced challenges with the bat this season, which impacted his team, the Lucknow Super Giants, leading to their early exit from IPL 2025. Despite being the most expensive player in the league, Pant managed only 153 runs at an average of 13.72 across 13 matches, yet he still secured a spot in the Test team.
Nitish Reddy: The all-rounder from Sunrisers Hyderabad, Nitish Reddy, failed to score a single half-century in IPL 2025, accumulating just 182 runs and two wickets in 12 matches. However, he has performed well in Test cricket, scoring 298 runs at an average of 37.25, including one century, along with five wickets.
Karun Nair: After a stellar debut match this season, Karun Nair's performance dwindled, as he only managed 154 runs at an average of 22 over seven matches. Although he has previously scored a triple century in Tests, his current form raises concerns about his ability to perform in England.
Washington Sundar: This all-rounder from Gujarat Titans has struggled both with bat and ball, scoring just 85 runs and taking two wickets in five matches. In his Test career, he has played nine matches, scoring 468 runs and taking 25 wickets.
Aakash Deep: The fast bowler from Lucknow Super Giants, Aakash Deep, has had a disappointing season, taking only three wickets in six matches after returning from injury. In his Test career, he has claimed 15 wickets in seven matches.
Shardul Thakur: Although Shardul Thakur started IPL 2025 strongly, he has since struggled to take wickets, finishing the season with 13 wickets in ten matches. In Test cricket, he has played 11 matches, taking 31 wickets. It remains to be seen how he performs on the England tour.