Mumbai: The Indian cricket team will play the challenging Test series against England without two of its senior and most successful stars — Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both of whom have recently retired from Test cricket. Their departure has created a significant void that will be difficult for India to fill.
During India’s last Test series in England (2021–22), Rohit had scored 345 runs at an average of 57.50 across four matches. With his absence, the new opening combination will be under scrutiny and is sure to be tested. Similarly, Virat Kohli, who batted most of his 14-year Test career at No. 4, often led India to victory from that position. So, the question of who will replace him is also a major concern.
Along with them, senior spinner R. Ashwin has also retired, weakening India’s spin department. These absences mean that head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team will face a tough challenge during the England tour.
India’s First Batch to Leave for England on June 6
Mumbai, May 15: India will begin its campaign in the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle with a five-match Test series against England, starting June 20 in England. Coach Gautam Gambhir and the first group of Indian players will depart on June 6. Other players will join later based on their IPL commitments.
Although the BCCI hasn’t made an official announcement, all squad members are expected to regroup in England by June 10. A senior BCCI official stated that players whose IPL campaign ends in the league stage will travel with Gambhir on June 6, while others will fly out after the playoffs and final.
Currently, most of India’s support staff is already abroad and will directly join the team in England. Once the Test squad is announced, each player will receive their travel itinerary.
Test Match Schedule:
- 1st Test: June 20 – Leeds
- 2nd Test: July 2 – Birmingham
- 3rd Test: July 10 – Lord’s (London)
- 4th Test: July 23 – Manchester
- 5th Test: July 31 – The Oval
India ‘A’ Team to Tour from May 25
Ahead of the senior series, India ‘A’ will also tour England. Players from the India ‘A’ squad will start leaving from May 25, depending on their IPL status. Those not playing in IPL or eliminated early will travel first, while others will follow.
The India ‘A’ squad will be announced soon — likely within two days — and their matches will begin from May 30.
