Batting reboot faces acid test

The stage is set for one of the most eagerly anticipated contests in modern Test cricket as India take on England in the first Test of the five-match series at Headingley, Leeds, from June 20. Despite the name change from the Pataudi Trophy, the rivalry remains as intense as ever, steeped in history, fuelled by recent drama, and shaped by evolving identities.

- INDO-ASIAN NEWS SERVICE

India arrived in England with a point to prove. Despite being the most dominant side in white-ball cricket in recent times, their Test fortunes have dipped significantly. The 3-0 whitewash at home against New Zealand in early 2024, followed by a 3-1 series defeat in Australia, has pushed them down the rankings.

This series offers them a chance to reset, but they will do so with a team in transition, most notably, under the captaincy of Shubman Gill. With veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli absent from the squad, as well as the legendary R Ashwin, India will field a younger, less experienced side, with KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja offering the spine of continuity and resilience.

During a press conference to announce the Test squad, chief selector Ajit Agarkar cited Karun Nair’s strong domestic performances and familiarity with English conditions as key reasons for his selection. Nair played 10 County Championship matches across two seasons (2023-2024) for Northamptonshire, scoring 736 runs at 56.61.