India Tour of England 2025: The Indian cricket team is entering a brand-new chapter. The BCCI has announced an 18-member Test squad for the upcoming five-match series against England, and this time, it’s a mix of new energy and familiar faces. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli officially retired from Test cricket, all eyes now turn to Shubman Gill, who has been named the new Test captain at just 25 years of age.
This England tour, starting on June 20, 2025, also marks the beginning of India’s journey in the new ICC World Test Championship 2025–2027 cycle.
All You Need to Know
- Shubman Gill appointed as India’s new Test captain
- Rishabh Pant named vice-captain and main wicketkeeper
- Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh get maiden Test call-ups
- Karun Nair and Shardul Thakur return to the squad
- Mohammed Shami and R Ashwin not included
- Five fast bowlers and four all-rounders selected
- Kuldeep Yadav is the only specialist spinner
Young Blood and Big Hopes
One of the biggest headlines is the selection of Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh. Both are uncapped in Test cricket, but their performance in domestic and white-ball formats has impressed selectors. Sudharsan’s journey is especially inspiring—sparked by his mother during the COVID lockdown, he turned his training and discipline into success. Now, he’s set to wear the whites for India.
Karun Nair’s Comeback
After a long absence, Karun Nair is back. His triple century against England back in 2016 made him a name to remember, but he slipped out of the squad over the years. Now, with a strong domestic season behind him and fresh opportunities on the table, Nair has earned his spot again.
Captaincy Call and Bumrah’s Role
Shubman Gill taking over as Test captain is being seen as a move for the future. Selector Ajit Agarkar shared that Jasprit Bumrah, although once vice-captain, won’t be able to play all five Tests due to workload concerns. That’s why Gill, who represents the next generation of leadership, was chosen.
Rishabh Pant, back in full swing after recovering from his accident, will play a crucial role as vice-captain and wicketkeeper. His aggressive style and energy will be vital in English conditions.
India Tour of England 2025: India Full Squad for England Test Series
India squad for England Tests: Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC and WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akashdeep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav
Key Venues and Dates
The series will be played across five iconic venues in England:
- 1st Test: Headingley, Leeds (June 20)
- 2nd Test: Edgbaston, Birmingham (July 2)
- 3rd Test: Lord’s, London (July 10)
- 4th Test: Old Trafford, Manchester (July 23)
- 5th Test: The Oval, London (July 31)
India will also play a four-day warm-up game against India A at Beckenham from June 13 to 16.
A new chapter begins for Indian Test cricket. With young leaders like Gill and fresh faces like Sudharsan and Arshdeep stepping up, the England tour promises exciting days ahead. Fans will surely miss the presence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, but the torch has now been passed to the next generation. Can this young Indian squad handle the English challenge and begin their WTC journey with a bang? We’ll soon find out.
FAQs
Who is the new Test captain of India?
Shubman Gill has been named the new captain of India’s Test team.
Who is India’s vice-captain for the England Test series?
Rishabh Pant has been appointed vice-captain and also returns as the main wicketkeeper.
Who are the debutants in India Test squad?
Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh have received their first call-ups to the Test team.
Why is Jasprit Bumrah not captain?
Selectors are managing Bumrah’s workload, and he may not play all five Tests, so Shubman Gill was chosen as captain.
Is Rohit Sharma playing the England series?
No, Rohit Sharma has retired from Test cricket in May 2025.
When does the England Test series start?
The first Test begins on June 20, 2025, at Headingley, Leeds.
