The much-anticipated Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy began with a decisive move from England’s skipper Ben Stokes, who won the toss and opted to bowl first in the opening Test against India at Headingley.
India, embarking on a new era without veterans Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin, presented a reshuffled lineup under the fresh captaincy of Shubman Gill. All eyes were on debutant Sai Sudharsan, who became India’s 317th Test player, receiving his cap from senior batter Cheteshwar Pujara. The spotlight also turned toward Karun Nair, making a dramatic return to Test cricket after an eight-year hiatus.
England, undefeated in home series since Brendon McCullum’s coaching stint began in 2022, fielded a familiar top seven with Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse leading the seam attack. Stokes emphasised taking advantage of early conditions at Headingley—a venue known for producing gripping contests.
India’s playing XI included seasoned pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna, with Ravindra Jadeja as the sole spinner offering all-round depth. Shardul Thakur was preferred as the fourth seamer, ahead of rising prospect Nitish Kumar Reddy.
“We would’ve bowled first as well,” Shubman Gill said at the toss. “It might be tricky early on, but we’re confident the wicket will ease out. The lads are well prepared after our game in Beckenham.”
The five-match series, stretched across 46 days, marks a rigorous challenge for India, seeking their first Test series win in England since 2007.
Playing XIs:
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (WK), Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.
