Aakash Chopra’s Predicted Playing XI for India’s First Test Against England

As India prepares to embark on their World Test Championship 2025-27 campaign, the excitement is palpable, especially with the new leadership and fresh faces in the squad. With the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, Shubman Gill has been handed the reins as India’s new Test captain. His first challenge will be leading India in the five-match Test series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.

One of the key discussions surrounding the team is the inclusion of Karun Nair, who recently showcased his form with a double century against England Lions in the first unofficial Test. Despite his impressive performance, former cricketer Aakash Chopra has not included Nair in his predicted playing XI for the first Test.

Aakash Chopra’s Ideal India Playing XI

In a video on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra discussed his preferred XI for the opening Test, focusing on a strong combination of batting and pace bowlers. Chopra is in favor of a strong pace attack, given the English conditions, and he opted for a more aggressive batting lineup. Here’s what he had to say:

Opening Pair: Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul

Chopra believes that young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal should partner KL Rahul at the top of the order. Jaiswal, after impressing in domestic cricket, is tipped to make a mark on the international stage. KL Rahul, on the other hand, is one of India’s most reliable openers, and Chopra feels he will be crucial in giving India a strong foundation at Headingley.

Number 3 and 4: Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill (c)

For the number 3 slot, Chopra backs Sai Sudharsan, who has shown great promise. Sudharsan, with his solid technique and temperament, could provide the stability needed in the middle order. As for the captain, Shubman Gill, who has been in great form, will come in at No. 4. Chopra highlighted Gill’s adaptability and leadership skills as reasons he’s the right choice to lead India in Test cricket.

Wicketkeeper: Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant will take his spot behind the stumps as the wicketkeeper-batter. Pant has been in sublime form in all formats and will be expected to bring his aggressive batting to the Test format. His ability to turn the game with his attacking mindset could be crucial in English conditions.

All-rounders: Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur

Chopra went for two all-rounders in Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur. He believes Reddy can offer crucial contributions with the bat and also provide some overs with the ball when needed. Shardul Thakur, known for his ability to swing the ball in English conditions, will serve as a primary bowler who can bat in the lower order. Chopra views Thakur more as a bowler who can contribute with the bat, especially in challenging conditions.

Bowlers: Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna

Aakash Chopra’s XI includes just one spinner, Ravindra Jadeja, who remains a key figure in India’s Test lineup. Jadeja will be essential in controlling the middle overs and providing breakthroughs. Meanwhile, the pace attack will consist of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna. These fast bowlers, known for their pace and skill, will be crucial in exploiting the swinging conditions at Headingley.

Aakash Chopra’s Predicted India Playing XI for the 1st Test:

• Yashasvi Jaiswal

• KL Rahul

• Sai Sudharsan

• Shubman Gill (c)

• Rishabh Pant (wk)

• Nitish Kumar Reddy

• Ravindra Jadeja

• Shardul Thakur

• Jasprit Bumrah

• Mohammed Siraj

• Prasidh Krishna

Final Thoughts

Aakash Chopra’s lineup brings together a blend of youth, experience, and balance, and it reflects the changing dynamics of Indian Test cricket. Shubman Gill’s first assignment as captain will be a massive challenge, but with a strong supporting cast, including a solid pace attack and dynamic all-rounders, India will be looking to take an early advantage in the World Test Championship 2025-27 series against England.