The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the Indian squad set to face England in the first two Test matches of the upcoming five-match series on home soil. The announcement follows India’s historic Test win in Cape Town, propelling them to the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings.
Led by captain Rohit Sharma, the squad maintains a balance of experience and fresh talent. The first Test is scheduled for January 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
Uttar Pradesh’s wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel earns his maiden national team call-up, providing an additional wicketkeeping option alongside KL Rahul and KS Bharat. However, the squad continues to omit seasoned players Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, with Ishan Kishan also not making the cut.
The batting lineup largely mirrors the squad that recently toured South Africa, emphasizing consistency in team selection. Avesh Khan joins the pace battery, led by vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah, while Mohammed Siraj and Mukesh Kumar offer additional fast bowling options.
Spin bowling will play a crucial role for India in home conditions, and Kuldeep Yadav has been included in the squad to provide cover for established spinners R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel.
The full squad for the first two Tests against England comprises:
– Rohit Sharma (Captain)
– Shubman Gill
– Yashasvi Jaiswal
– Virat Kohli
– Shreyas Iyer
– KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
– KS Bharat (Wicketkeeper)
– Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)
– R Ashwin
– Ravindra Jadeja
– Axar Patel
– Kuldeep Yadav
– Mohammed Siraj
– Mukesh Kumar
– Jasprit Bumrah (Vice-Captain)
– Avesh Khan
The squad selection reflects a strategic blend of established performers and promising talents as India aims to build on its recent success in the Test format.
