New Delhi: India’s next major Test series after the ongoing tour of Australia is the crucial trip to England in June 2025. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have struggled in recent Test innings, and reports suggest that this Australia tour could mark their final appearances in whites. As India plans for the future, there is a strong possibility that both veteran batsmen could be dropped to make way for younger players in the longest format.
India faced a heavy defeat against Australia in the 4th Test of the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), trailing 1-2 in the series. This loss has ended their direct qualification hopes for the 2025 World Test Championship final. India’s next major Test assignment after the Australia tour is a crucial foreign series against England, scheduled for June 2025.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have struggled in recent Test innings, and reports suggest that the ongoing Australia tour could be their final appearance in whites. As India looks to focus on future prospects in the longest format, both batting veterans might be dropped from the team. In Rohit’s absence, KL Rahul is expected to open the batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
India’s Predicted Test Squad for England Tour in 2025
With the upcoming Test series in England, India will likely make some strategic changes to the squad as they look to build for the future. Here’s a predicted lineup for the 2025 tour:
Middle Order Boost
In the absence of Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan is tipped to play a key role in India’s middle order, partnering with Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Nitish Kumar Reddy. Reddy’s impressive century in Melbourne and his potential as a bowler could prove valuable, especially in English conditions. Dhruv Jurel is also expected to slot in at number 6.
All-Rounders and Spinners
Ravindra Jadeja remains India’s trusted all-rounder at number 7, while Washington Sundar will provide support as the second spinner. Kuldeep Yadav will offer variety with his left-arm wrist-spin and be a key part of the attack in England’s conditions.
Captaincy and Pace Attack
With Rohit Sharma absent, Jasprit Bumrah is expected to step up as captain, having previously showcased his leadership qualities. Mohammed Shami, recovering from knee issues, should return to the fold, while Mohammed Siraj will provide pace support. Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna are likely to be on standby as back-ups.
India’s Predicted Test Squad for the England Tour in 2025
KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (c), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Devdutt Padikkal, Kuldeep Yadav.
