During practice on Wednesday at Headingley, Leeds, Indian batter Karun Nair, who is anticipated to make his eagerly anticipated comeback to Test cricket after almost eight years, had a little injury scare. The opening Test of the five-match series between India and England, which also signalled the start of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle for both teams, was just two days prior to the event.
Karun Nair performance in the nets raised some concerns despite the minor injury.
During the net session, Karun Nair , who is anticipated to play in his first Test match since 2017, was struck in the ribs by a sharp ball from bowler Prasidh Krishna. The 33-year-old was uncomfortable after the blow, but he quickly went back to hitting. He later demonstrated the place where the ball struck him to the team members and support staff following his hitting practice.
Despite his outstanding performances, the right-hander, who was once considered a future star after being the second Indian to make a triple-century in Test cricket, was left out of the team. He was called up to the national team, nevertheless, after a strong domestic campaign in 2024–25 that included a recent double century in the India A vs. England Lions series and a significant contribution to Vidarbha’s Ranji Trophy victory.
England’s first Test playing XI is announced.
He seemed timid against deliveries outside the off stump and struggled at first against Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. He was once clean bowled by Ravindra Jadeja, and his problems against spin persisted. Nair also made technical changes after speaking briefly with Shitanshu Kotak, the batting coach.
A few days prior to the first Test, the Indian team, led by vice-captain Rishabh Pant and new captain Shubman Gill, landed in Leeds. Notably, the team will be without Ravichandran Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma for the first time since 2011. In difficult English conditions, head coach Gautam Gambhir, who just returned to the team after addressing a family emergency, will be leading India to a successful start to their WTC campaign.
In contrast, England revealed their starting lineup on Wednesday. Sam Cook will be replaced by Chris Woakes, who is in the mix, as he recovers from an injury. Jamie Smith is still the specialist wicketkeeper, and vice captain Ollie Pope has held onto his No. 3 position ahead of Jacob Bethell.
India
