The wait is over – England playing XI vs India for the first Test at Headingley (starting June 20) has been announced, and there are some spicy picks and bold calls in there. With the five-match series kicking off the new World Test Championship cycle, this lineup gives us plenty to chat about. Ready to dig in? Let’s break it down.

The Full England playing XI vs India for First Test

Here’s the complete list of the England XI for first Test against India:

This is your England squad for India, Test No.1.

The Top-Order：Crawley & Duckett Look to Fire Early

England are sticking with Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett to open the innings. After both scored tons in the recent Zimbabwe series, it’s clear the management is backing the pair to continue their aggressive brand. Crawley’s form is famously feast-or-famine, but when he clicks, he scores big and fast – which could be crucial in putting India’s pace attack on the back foot.

Duckett, meanwhile, is in red-hot form across formats. He brings a fearless, counter-attacking style, and he’s been building a solid understanding with Crawley up top. Together, they could provide explosive starts – or rapid collapses. Time will tell.

Middle-Order Muscle：Root, Brook, Pope & Co.

This is where England’s depth really shines. England XI for first Test features a strong middle order with Joe Root (still one of the best Test batters in the world), the exciting Harry Brook, and vice-captain Ollie Pope at No.3. Pope had a tough 2024 but bought himself more time with a gritty ton against Zimbabwe.

Brook continues to prove himself as a key middle-order anchor with a Test average hovering near 50. Then there’s Jamie Smith, who’s not only keeping wickets but also adds firepower down the order. And of course, Ben Stokes, the heartbeat of the team, brings balance, experience, and that never-say-die attitude.

All-Round Options and the Bowling Unit

This England squad for India includes three frontline pacers: Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse, and Chris Woakes, plus spinner Shoaib Bashir and Stokes as a handy fifth option.

Woakes is the biggest boost here. Back from injury, he’s lethal in English conditions and has a fantastic record against India (especially at home). His swing bowling is tailor-made for Headingley. Carse, meanwhile, will play his first Test on home soil and is a rising quick England are banking on.

Josh Tongue’s inclusion is a great comeback story. After missing much of the last two seasons due to injuries, he’s back with a point to prove. Shoaib Bashir, the sole specialist spinner, impressed hugely against Zimbabwe – his 9-wicket haul across innings showing he’s more than just a holding bowler.

The Surprises：No Bethell, Woakes Returns

The omission of Jacob Bethell, especially after a strong IPL with RCB and standout white-ball form, has raised eyebrows. Many expected him to slot in at No.3 or play as a utility all-rounder. He’s been electric in limited-overs cricket lately, and some fans might feel he’s earned a shot. For now, the selectors went with the more Test-proven Pope.

On the flip side, Chris Woakes’ return is both expected and relieving. Out since December with an ankle injury, he looked sharp in the recent Lions match against India A. His selection in the England playing XI vs India signals trust in experience over experimentation.

Team news from Leeds ahead of a BIG week 📋

Ready to face @BCCI 👊

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 18, 2025

What Makes This England Team Dangerous？

Even without Archer, Wood, and Atkinson, this England squad for India has a few weapons India won’t take lightly:

• Swing in English conditions: Woakes and Carse can move the ball early, especially under cloudy Leeds skies.
• Deep batting: From Crawley to Woakes at No.8, this team bats deep. India’s bowlers will need to work hard for all 10 wickets.
• Aggressive approach: England have fully embraced their “Bazball” style – fast scoring, bold declarations, and fearless intent. That could put pressure on India’s typically steady Test rhythm.
• Root factor: Joe Root’s form remains one of England’s biggest assets. He averages over 50 in Tests vs India and will once again be their pillar in the middle.

Final Thoughts

The England playing XI vs India announcement shows that the selectors are backing experience, match fitness, and balance. It’s a side that blends explosive batting with functional bowling depth. While the exclusion of Bethell stings for some fans, the return of Woakes and the faith in Tongue and Carse give this team a solid shape for what promises to be a blockbuster Test series. The real question? Can they execute the plan against a strong Indian side starting June 20 at Headingley. Buckle up – we’re in for a ride.

Related Match

ENG vs IND 2025 1st Test of the India tour of England series on 06/20 at 03:30 PM IST