New Delhi: A fresh chapter begins in Indian Test cricket as Shubman Gill leads a youthful Indian side into their first match of the five-Test series against England at Headingley, Leeds, kicking off the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). With senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli absent from the lineup, the team presents a relatively inexperienced look as they face a battle-hardened England squad.
India’s preparations included two first-class matches featuring the India A side against England Lions, followed by an intra-squad fixture—steps aimed at acclimatising the squad to English conditions. As the action begins today, all eyes will be on Gill, tasked with leading India in one of the most challenging overseas tours.
For hosts England, the aggressive “Bazball” approach under coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes has transformed their Test game in recent years. However, injuries to key pacers Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, and Gus Atkinson have left their bowling attack depleted. This could provide India with opportunities to exploit a weakened English pace battery despite their own lack of experience.
Adding to the backdrop of the series is a change in its traditional branding. The series, formerly known as the Pataudi Trophy, has now been renamed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, honoring legendary cricketers James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar. The move sparked heated debates and headlines even before the first ball was bowled.
This five-match series marks the beginning of the WTC journey for both sides, with vital points at stake and early momentum key to securing a spot in the 2027 final. Fans across the globe are set for a high-octane contest as two cricketing heavyweights lock horns in what promises to be an enthralling series.
