With the high-stakes England Test tour fast approaching, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has begun finalizing its plans for the upcoming red-ball campaign. According to a report from The Times of India, the Indian board has shortlisted 35 players for the tour, which includes a five-match Test series as well as India A fixtures, slated to begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.
Despite a lean run in the longest format over the past year, Rohit Sharma is reportedly the frontrunner to captain India during the series. The selectors believe that the side needs an experienced leader to guide them through what is expected to be a challenging campaign in English conditions.
“Rohit is most likely to travel as the board feels that one needs a strong captain through the series, which is likely to be as tough as the Australia tour,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying.
While Rohit’s position appears secure for now, the selectors are also addressing key uncertainties in the batting order. Notably, Sarfaraz Khan, who was in contention after strong domestic performances, is said to have fallen out of favour with the team management. Instead, Rajat Patidar and Karun Nair are being considered for roles in the India A squad due to their consistency in red-ball cricket.
“About the middle order, the team management has shown very little confidence in Sarfaraz Khan’s ability. Nair and Patidar are seasoned red-ball players and are in fine form,” the source added.
Another name under consideration is Sai Sudharsan, who has impressed during the IPL 2025 and could join Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal as the third opening option in the squad.
In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be included in the touring party, especially in the wake of Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement. The team is looking for a wrist-spinner with attacking flair, and Kuldeep fits the bill. However, Axar Patel’s name is surprisingly missing from the list, despite the inclusion of 35 players.
On the pace front, concerns have emerged over Mohammed Siraj’s form, especially in the absence of pace spearheads Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. The selectors are contemplating asking several Test regulars to feature in India A games ahead of the tour to regain red-ball rhythm.
The official announcement of both the India A and Test squads is expected by the second week of May, with preparations intensifying ahead of the marquee series.
