England have named their squad for the eagerly awaited first Test against India, set to begin on June 20, 2025, at Headingley in Leeds. This match is the start of a five-Test series that is part of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship.
The squad includes a blend of seasoned players and promising young talents. Some key players are returning from injury, while others are coming off good performances in domestic and international cricket.
14 Member Squad for the 1st Test:
| No. | Player Name | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ben Stokes (C) | All-rounder |
| 2 | Shoaib Bashir | Spinner |
| 3 | Jacob Bethell | Batting All-rounder |
| 4 | Harry Brook | Batter |
| 5 | Brydon Carse | Fast Bowler |
| 6 | Sam Cook | Fast Bowler |
| 7 | Zak Crawley | Opening Batter |
| 8 | Ben Duckett | Opening Batter |
| 9 | Jamie Overton | Fast Bowling All-rounder |
| 10 | Ollie Pope | Middle-order Batter |
| 11 | Joe Root | Batter |
| 12 | Jamie Smith | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| 13 | Josh Tongue | Fast Bowler |
| 14 | Chris Woakes | Bowling All-rounder |
Key Highlights
Ben Stokes returns as captain
After recovering from a hamstring injury, Ben Stokes is back to lead the team. He has started bowling again and will play a vital role as an all-rounder. His leadership and presence bring balance and confidence to the squad.
Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse return to the squad
Both fast bowlers are returning after long injury breaks. They are expected to play for their counties or for the England Lions to regain full match fitness before the Test begins.
Jamie Overton makes a comeback
Jamie Overton is back in the Test squad after playing just one match in 2022. However, he is still being monitored due to a recent finger injury. The medical staff believe he will be ready in time.
Jacob Bethell joins after IPL commitments
Bethell was unavailable for the recent Test against Zimbabwe due to his IPL commitments. Now back in the squad, he brings added strength to England’s batting lineup and spin department.
Gus Atkinson ruled out
Atkinson, who impressed in recent matches, has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury he picked up during the one-off Test against Zimbabwe.
England Squad for 1st Test
Ben Stokes (Captain), Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Jacob Bethell, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Sam Cook, Jamie Overton, Shoaib Bashir.
What’s Ahead
The first Test at Headingley will be followed by matches in Birmingham, London (Lord’s and The Oval), and Manchester. The England-India Test series is widely regarded as one of the most fiercely contested battles in international cricket. With both teams aiming for a strong start to their World Test Championship campaign, fans can expect exciting cricket over the next several weeks.
This is a big opportunity for some of the younger players to step up, while the experienced names will look to guide the team with their leadership and skill. England will hope to make the most of home conditions and start the series on a winning note.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
