India Test Squad for England 2025: Shubman Gill Named Captain, Pant as Deputy in New Era
BCCI Unveils Fresh Faces and Strategic Shifts for High-Stakes Tour
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a revamped India Test squad for England 2025 on May 24, marking the beginning of a transformative phase following the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. In a bold move, 25-year-old batting sensation Shubman Gill has been appointed captain, with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant as his deputy. The squad features a mix of youth and experience, prioritizing long-term vision and domestic success.
Key Highlights: India Test Squad for England 2025
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New Leadership: Gill takes charge, Pant becomes vice-captain.
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Surprise Exclusions: Mohammed Shami and Shreyas Iyer dropped.
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Domestic Stars Rewarded: Karun Nair, Abhimanyu Easwaran, and Sai Sudharsan earn call-ups.
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Pace Attack: Bumrah leads, but workload management prioritized.
India Test Squad for England 2025: Full Player List
The 18-member squad balances fresh talent with seasoned campaigners:
Batters: Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, B Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair
All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Nitish Reddy, Shardul Thakur
Wicketkeepers: Rishabh Pant (VC), Dhruv Jurel
Pacers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh
Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav
Who is the Captain of India’s Test Squad for England 2025?
Shubman Gill’s elevation as captain signals BCCI’s faith in his leadership and long-term potential. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar emphasized, “We wanted a leader who can grow with the team. Gill’s maturity and recent form made him the ideal choice.” Gill, already a vice-captain in limited-overs cricket, steps into the role after Rohit Sharma’s retirement.
Rishabh Pant’s appointment as vice-captain highlights his strategic acumen and comeback resilience post-injury. Agarkar noted, “Pant’s experience and wicketkeeping perspective add immense value.”
Why Was Jasprit Bumrah Not Made Captain?
Despite Bumrah’s leadership credentials, fitness concerns influenced the decision. Agarkar clarified, “Bumrah is irreplaceable as a bowler. Managing his workload across five Tests is critical.” The pace spearhead may sit out 1-2 matches to stay fit for the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
Key Inclusions and Exclusions in India’s Test Squad
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Karun Nair’s Fairytale Return: The 33-year-old, last seen in Tests in 2017, earned his spot with 1,200+ Ranji Trophy runs and a stellar IPL 2025.
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Sai Sudharsan’s Maiden Call-Up: The Gujarat Titans star’s technical prowess impressed selectors.
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Shami and Iyer Omitted: Shami’s fitness struggles and Iyer’s inconsistent form led to their exclusion.
India vs England 2025 Test Series: Schedule and Live Updates
The England tour of India 2025 begins on June 20, with five Tests scheduled across iconic venues like Lord’s and The Oval. Fans can catch live updates on BCCI’s official platforms and broadcast partners.
Read More :Shreyas Iyer SNUBBED from England Tests: Injury, IPL 2025 Price, Wife, Age & More Behind Agarkar’s ‘No Room’ Verdict
BCCI’s Vision: Answers to Top Queries
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Why was Gill chosen over Bumrah?
Long-term vision and reduced bowling workload for Gill. -
What’s the role of domestic performers like Easwaran?
Easwaran’s 60+ first-class average earned him a backup opener’s slot. -
Will Bumrah play all five Tests?
Unlikely; rotation policy to preserve his fitness. -
How to watch the series live?
Sony Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar hold broadcasting rights.
Expert Take: New Era for Indian Test Cricket
Former selector Sarandeep Singh praised the squad: “Gill’s aggression and Pant’s flair mirror India’s modern approach. Nair and Easwaran’s inclusion rewards consistency.” The series will test India’s bench strength, especially in swinging English conditions.
Conclusion
The India Test squad for England 2025 blends youth and experience, aiming to dominate the WTC cycle. With Gill at the helm and Pant’s tactical support, the team eyes redemption after their 2021 series loss. Cricket enthusiasts can expect fireworks as India’s new-look squad takes on Ben Stokes’ England in a battle of strategies!
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