Overview
- The first of five Tests begins on June 20 at Headingley as India and England launch the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle.
- Shubman Gill makes his debut as India’s 37th Test captain, slotting into the No. 4 batting spot and backed by vice-captain Rishabh Pant.
- India embark without veterans Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin, and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is available for only three matches due to a back injury.
- England, led by Ben Stokes with Brendon McCullum as coach, must fill the void left by James Anderson and Stuart Broad, handing opportunities to Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse and others.
- Both sides face transitional tests as India chase their first series win in England since 2007 and England seek to rebound from a 4–1 defeat on last year’s tour.