Dodda Ganesh chooses his Indian XI for his first test against England in Leeds
As the summer of 2025 unfolds, cricket fans are set up like an emotional contest India Tour England for a 5-match Test Series. This series is particularly important 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship Cycles for both teams. and Shubman Gill Stepping into the role after India’s test captain Rohit Sharma‘retirement, and Rishab pants As vice captain, the Indian team enters a new era. There are no stubborn people like Virat Kohli Starting June 20, 2025, we will add to discussing every choice and strategy as the team prepares for the opening test at Headingley in Leeds.
Dodda Ganesh’s XI for the First Test: A Blend of Young People, Experience and Depth
Former Indian Pacer Dodda Ganesh He sparked discussions with his handpicked India XI for his first test in Leeds. Through X (formerly Twitter), Ganesh proposed a lineup that highlights both batting depth and seam bowling options.
“I’m playing XI in my first Test in Leeds: KL Rahul, Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Gill, Karun Nair, Pant (WK), Jadeja, Thakur, Bumrah, Siraj, Prasidh.
Ganesh’s XI is noteworthy for several reasons. At the top, KL was satisfied and Yashasvi Jaiswal Provides a combination of left and right openings Sai SudarsanIncluding in number 3 shows a bold move to inject fresh talent. Gil, the newly appointed captain, will lock in middle orders lined up. Karun Nyathat recall will surprise many people. Returning as wicketkeeper and vice captain, Pants adds firepower and leadership.
Rabindra JadajaThe presence in No. 7 guarantees all-around stability Shardul Thakur Number 8 provides versatility to extend the batting depth and wrap the seams. Pace attack –Jasprit Bumrah, Mohamed Shirajiand Prashidi Krishna– India strategically nods to four authentic seam options, English terms. This blend of youth, experience and overall ability reflects Ganesh’s intentions to balance resilience and aggression in unfamiliar territory.
Playing XI for my first test in Leeds:
KL was satisfied
High Swal
Sai Sudarsan
Gil
Karun Nya
Pants (wk)
jaadaja
Takuru
Bumura
Shiraji
PlacidBats up to number 8. It also offers four authentic sewing options. This is probably the best XI from the beginning #engvind
-Dodda Ganesh | Big Ganesh (@doddaganesha) June 17, 2025
Read again: “We have to be a little smarter…”: Jasprit Bumrah finally reveals why he won’t take Indian test captain
Classic rivalry summer
The 2025 Indian and England Test Series promises classic contests at iconic English venues. The action begins with Leeds Headingley from June 20th to 24th, setting the stage for the High Stakes summer. The second Test will move to Ed Baston in Birmingham (July 2-6), followed by London, London (July 10-14), Old Trafford in Manchester (July 23-27), and the finale at the Kennington Oval in London (July 31-August 4).
This series is not only a fresh chapter for both teams, but also a key opening salvo in the New World Test Championship Cycle. With new leadership, fresh faces and high expectations, this stage is set in a rivet contest that tests India’s Mattle and England’s resolve throughout the memorable British summer.