BCCI Signals Shift in Test Plans with Nair Recall and Iyer Snub for England Tour

April 30, 2025: In a move that signals a transitional phase in Indian Test cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly finalized a pool of around 35 players for the upcoming India ‘A’ tour of England and the subsequent five-match Test series against Ben Stokes-led England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.

Amid speculation surrounding his future, Rohit Sharma has retained the backing of the selectors and is likely to captain the Test side in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023–25 opener. A BCCI source told that the board sees the need for a seasoned and composed leader, especially for a series expected to rival the intensity of India’s recent Australia tour.

Middle-Order Shuffle: Sarfaraz Dropped, Nair Returns

Consistent domestic performer Karun Nair has earned a recall for the India ‘A’ tour, with Rajat Patidar also making the shortlist. The selectors appear to have moved on from Sarfaraz Khan, who remained benched throughout the Australia series despite strong domestic numbers. “The team management has shown very little confidence in Sarfaraz’s ability,” the BCCI source said, hinting that Nair and Patidar’s red-ball credentials have tipped the scales in their favor.

Axar, Iyer on the Fringe

While Axar Patel’s absence has been deemed tactical—owing to Ravindra Jadeja’s primacy and the pace-friendly English pitches—Shreyas Iyer continues to remain on the sidelines. Despite being a proven performer in white-ball cricket and making notable red-ball contributions in the domestic circuit, Iyer’s poor returns in previous Tests have worked against him. A final decision on his inclusion is still pending.

Sudharsan, Kuldeep Set for Bigger Roles

Rising star Sai Sudharsan is being considered as the third opener behind Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, while Kuldeep Yadav has emerged as a lead spin option for overseas Tests following Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement. The left-arm wrist-spinner’s resurgence across formats has strengthened his claim for a place in seamer-friendly conditions.

Injury Woes: Pacers Under Watch

The selectors are treading cautiously with the fast bowling unit. Jasprit Bumrah, who made a successful return for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, and Mohammed Shami, yet to be tested in the format post-injury, are under fitness scrutiny. Mohammed Siraj, too, is reportedly under the scanner after an underwhelming Australia tour. As a result, India is expected to travel with a healthy contingent of back-up pacers.

India ‘A’ Tour as a Dress Rehearsal

In a bid to prepare thoroughly for the English challenge, senior players may be asked to feature in at least one of the three India ‘A’ matches. The move, reminiscent of the approach used ahead of tough overseas tours, is aimed at helping players adapt to the seam-friendly English conditions before the high-stakes WTC campaign begins.

India’s first Test against England is scheduled to begin on June 20, 2025, and all eyes will be on how the team balances youth and experience in what could be a defining tour for several careers.