New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), under the leadership of chief selector Ajit Agarkar, has named an 18-member squad for India’s upcoming five-match Test series against England, set to begin on June 20. In a significant move, Shubman Gill has been appointed as the new Test captain following Rohit Sharma’s retirement from the longest format.
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named vice-captain, edging out senior players like KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah for the role.
The squad features a blend of youth and experience. Promising batter Sai Sudharsan has earned his maiden Test call-up, while Karun Nair returns to the fold after an impressive domestic season. Fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur also makes his comeback to the red-ball setup.
Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has been left out, with Ajit Agarkar citing the need for the bowler to gradually increase his workload before making a return to the rigours of Test cricket. Harshit Rana and Sarfaraz Khan, despite recent strong performances, are part of the India A squad and will participate in warm-up matches in England.
Jasprit Bumrah will lead India’s pace attack, supported by Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. The spin department will be handled by Kuldeep Yadav, with all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar providing additional options.
India’s 18-Member Test Squad for England Series:
Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav.
The series marks a new era for Indian Test cricket, with Shubman Gill taking on leadership responsibilities and fresh faces being given the opportunity to prove themselves on one of the toughest overseas tours.
