Ravi Shastri Reveals Predicted Playing XI for India's Test Against England
Shastri's Insights on India's First Test Lineup
Former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri has shared his anticipated playing XI for the upcoming Test match against England, set to commence on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. This match will kick off India's journey in the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle.
Under the leadership of new captain Shubman Gill, India will field an 18-member squad for the five-match series. Shastri emphasized the importance of a solid opening partnership, advocating for the left-right combination of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul to start the innings.
He highlighted KL Rahul as the most seasoned batsman in the squad, noting his impressive performance during India's previous tour of England. Additionally, Shastri mentioned Sai Sudharsan as a candidate for a top-order position, with Gill expected to bat at number four.
Shastri's Comments:
“I believe it will be (Yashasvi) Jaiswal alongside KL Rahul, as this is a significant tour for him. He is the most experienced batter, having opened during the last tour to England, where he scored a century and performed well. I hope he will open the innings. For number three, I would choose the young talent, Sai Sudarshan. From what I’ve observed, he is quite impressive, and this tour will provide him with valuable experience,”
Shastri also noted that Karun Nair could fit into the batting order under Gill, citing his experience in county cricket. Nair's consistent performances have earned him a long-awaited return to the national team. Furthermore, Shastri confirmed Rishabh Pant as the wicketkeeper, placing him at No. 6 in the batting lineup for the Test in Leeds.
“Most likely, depending on his current form, it will be Karun Nair at five. It has been a while since he last played for India. Rishabh Pant will be at six. Nair has put in a lot of effort to return to the side, and his run tally in first-class cricket is remarkable. I advised him during an IPL match to not just knock on the door but to kick it down and secure his place, which he has done with his performance,”
He indicated that Ravindra Jadeja would occupy the No. 7 spot as the primary spinner, with Shardul Thakur likely at No. 8. Shastri confirmed that fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah would be included in the playing XI. However, if the weather is overcast, Arshdeep Singh might be considered, otherwise, Prasidh Krishna could take a spot in the pace attack.
“I would opt for three fast bowlers, plus Shardul Thakur. It will be a tough choice between Shardul and Nitish Kumar Reddy, depending on their bowling workload. If Reddy can deliver 12 to 14 overs, he might get the nod due to his batting capabilities. The three fast bowlers I would select are Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah. If conditions are cloudy in Leeds, there might be a temptation to include left-arm bowler Arshdeep Singh as well. So, it will be either Prasidh Krishna or Arshdeep, but Siraj and Bumrah will definitely be in the lineup,”
Ravi Shastri's Predicted XI for the First Test Against England
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, Karun Nair, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna/Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.