India’s Probable XI for 2nd Test vs England: No Bumrah, Thakur Likely Dropped; Gill Might Bring In Nitish Reddy

India are bracing for a critical bounce-back in the second Test against England at Edgbaston following a demoralizing defeat at Headingley. Despite strong performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant, the team failed to defend 371 in the fourth innings, leading to growing scrutiny over team selection and bowling combinations.

What Might Change for Edgbaston?

1. Karun Nair or B Sai Sudharsan – Only One May Play
India opted to play both Karun Nair and B Sai Sudharsan at Headingley, but the pair could not make a significant impact, collectively scoring just 50 runs. To balance the side better, one of them—most likely Sudharsan due to recent form—might retain his place, with Nair potentially making way.

2. Nitish Kumar Reddy Likely To Be Drafted In
To add depth with both bat and ball, Nitish Kumar Reddy appears to be a smart inclusion. A standout performer during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with 298 runs and five wickets, his medium pace can offer control and variety. His ability to contribute as a seam-bowling all-rounder could be key, especially on an Edgbaston pitch that has historically offered assistance to all disciplines.

3. Kuldeep Yadav May Replace Shardul Thakur
With Edgbaston known for assisting spinners—especially under hot conditions—Kuldeep Yadav could return to the XI. The left-arm wrist-spinner boasts impressive away Test stats (18 wickets in 4 matches at 19.56 avg). His inclusion could come at the cost of Shardul Thakur, who had an off game in Leeds and failed to make a notable contribution with either bat or ball.

4. Arshdeep Singh To Replace Jasprit Bumrah?
To manage Jasprit Bumrah’s workload in the five-match series, he may be rested for the second Test. Arshdeep Singh, who brings the ability to swing the new ball and bowl tight lines, is in line for a debut. His inclusion would offer India a fresh left-arm pace option, especially with Mohammed Siraj’s early-innings effectiveness declining this year (42 avg in first 20 overs).

5. Prasidh Krishna Might Get Another Chance
Despite his expensive outing in Leeds (6+ economy), Prasidh Krishna might still hold onto his spot, largely due to his extra pace and bounce. On Edgbaston’s less lively surface, India might opt to keep the pace balance with Krishna’s hit-the-deck bowling style.