The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has officially announced the playing 11 for the first Test match against India, starting from 20 June at Headingley, Leeds. Under the captaincy of Ben Stokes, the English team looks set to begin their campaign in the World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
The team includes a blend of youth and experience, with some major changes in the bowling department due to injuries and retirement.
Chris Woakes Returns, Brydon Carse Gets Opportunity
Chris Woakes has returned to the Test team after last appearing in December 2023. His experience will be vital, especially in the absence of senior bowlers. On the other hand, Brydon Carse is set to play his first-ever Test match on home soil.
He believes that India missing players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could work in England’s favour. However, Carse also acknowledged the depth and strength of the Indian squad, saying, “We’re ready for any challenge they bring.”
England Misses Key Pacers
England will go into the first Test with one of their least experienced bowling attacks in recent years.
- James Anderson has retired from Test cricket.
- Jofra Archer and Mark Wood are out due to injuries.
This puts extra pressure on Woakes, Carse, and Josh Tongue to lead the bowling lineup.
Historic Note: India’s Last Test Series Win in England
India last won a Test series in England back in 2007, under Rahul Dravid’s captaincy. Since then, the Indian team has visited England four times (2011, 2014, 2018, and 2021) but hasn’t been able to secure a series win. The most notable loss came in 2011 when MS Dhoni’s team lost 0–4 after winning the World Cup earlier that year.
Full Schedule: India vs England Test Series 2025
- 1st Test: June 20 – Headingley, Leeds
- 2nd Test: July 2 – Birmingham
- 3rd Test: July 10 – Lord’s
- 4th Test: July 23 – Manchester
- 5th Test: July 31 – The Oval, London
This five-match Test series will be crucial for both teams as they begin their World Test Championship journey.
England’s Playing 11 for 1st Test vs India
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir
Read More: India Series Ahead, James Anderson Becomes Lancashire Captain at 42
Conclusion
England’s playing XI for the first Test shows a team in transition — young, bold, and ready for a new era in Test cricket. With Chris Woakes’ experience and Brydon Carse’s debut at home, this team will look to start strong against a competitive Indian side. The absence of Kohli and Rohit may create an opening, but India’s depth still makes this a tough contest.
All eyes now turn to Headingley on 20 June, as this high-stakes Test series kicks off.
Disclaimer: The details in this article are based on official announcements by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Final team line-ups on match day may change depending on pitch and weather conditions.
