New-Look Team India Arrives in UK for Five-Match Test Series Against England
The Indian cricket team, led by newly-appointed skipper Shubman Gill, has arrived in the United Kingdom for a five-match Test series against England, part of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship. This marks a new era for Indian Test cricket following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The first Test is scheduled to begin on June 20 in Leeds, with matches also in Birmingham, Lord's, Manchester, and The Oval.
Unpacked:
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were key leaders and prolific batsmen for India, often guiding the team to major victories. Their retirements ended a successful era, prompting a generational shift and the appointment of new leadership, symbolized by Shubman Gill's captaincy, marking the start of a new chapter for Indian Test cricket.
Shubman Gill captained India in the T20I series against Zimbabwe in July 2024 and has led in domestic cricket, including for Gujarat Titans in the IPL. However, this tour marks his first assignment as the full-time Test captain for India.
The series against England is India's first assignment in the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. Performance in these matches will contribute points toward qualifying for the WTC final, making the series crucial for both teams' championship aspirations.
With the retirement of veterans like Ravichandran Ashwin, alongside Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, India’s squad features several new or less experienced players, reflecting a transitional phase. Specific squad details are typically announced by the BCCI, but the focus is on youth and rebuilding for the future.