The inaugural Test match between England and India is scheduled to begin on June 20, Friday, at Headingley, Leeds. The Indian team is undergoing a period of transition, placing significant responsibility on the younger players. Following the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, a considerable void has been left. Shubman Gill has been appointed captain, with Rishabh Pant as vice-captain.
A surprising question mark has arisen concerning Ravindra Jadeja’s place in the playing XI. Speculation, widely circulating on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), suggests that head coach Gautam Gambhir might drop the veteran all-rounder. With the absence of key players like Kohli, Sharma, and Ashwin, Jadeja’s potential omission is raising eyebrows.
If Jadeja is sidelined, Washington Sundar is likely to be considered as his replacement for the opening Test against England.