ENG vs IND 2025: Ravi Shastri Names India’s Playing XI for Leeds Test – Sai Sudharsan, Karun Nair Included
As India gear up for the first Test against England at Headingley starting June 20, former India head coach Ravi Shastri has revealed his preferred playing XI. This Test marks a fresh chapter for Indian cricket, with Shubman Gill leading the side after the retirements of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Opening Pair: Jaiswal and Rahul
Shastri backed Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul to open the innings. Highlighting Rahul’s valuable experience and previous success in English conditions, he said,
“He opened last time when India toured England, got a hundred, and had a good tour. So I would hope for him to open the innings.”
Middle Order: Sudharsan, Gill, Nair, Pant
In a bold move, Shastri placed young left-hander Sai Sudharsan at No. 3, citing his strong domestic and IPL performances as indicators of promise and temperament.
Captain Shubman Gill slots in at No. 4, taking over the position once occupied by Virat Kohli. This marks a crucial role for Gill, both as a batter and as the team’s leader.
At No. 5, Karun Nair finds a surprise spot in the XI. Nair, who hasn’t featured for India since 2017, impressed Shastri with his domestic consistency.
“I met him during an IPL game. I said, ‘Don’t just bang the door. Kick it down.’ He’s done just that with his first-class form,” Shastri noted.
Rishabh Pant will return at No. 6, expected to play a crucial role with the bat and gloves.
All-rounder and Bowling Attack
Ravindra Jadeja retains his place as the team’s primary spin option, offering control and depth with the bat.
For the all-rounder slot, Shastri is torn between Shardul Thakur and youngster Nitish Reddy. Reddy’s ability to bowl longer spells might earn him a debut depending on match conditions.
In the pace department, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are automatic picks. For the third seamer, Shastri suggested Prasidh Krishna, but left the door open for Arshdeep Singh if the conditions favor swing bowling.
“In Leeds, if it’s overcast and cloudy, there might be the temptation of going with the left-armer Arshdeep Singh,” Shastri added.
Ravi Shastri’s Preferred India XI for 1st Test vs England:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Sai Sudharsan
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Karun Nair
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur / Nitish Reddy
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Prasidh Krishna / Arshdeep Singh
India will aim to begin the new WTC cycle on a high, with youth, experience, and versatility in their ranks.
