Shreyas Iyer’s Omission Sparks Heated Debate
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has come under sharp criticism for excluding Shreyas Iyer from the Test squad for the upcoming England series, despite his stellar performance in the Champions Trophy where he was India’s top scorer with 243 runs. [Source]
Nick Knight Expresses His Disappointment
Former England opener and renowned commentator Nick Knight voiced his concerns in an interview with PTI. “Shreyas Iyer should be here. That would have helped this transition after Rohit and Virat’s exit,” Knight stated, underlining Iyer’s potential role in India’s evolving batting lineup.
High Expectations from Kuldeep Yadav and Sai Sudharsan
With Iyer missing, Knight is pinning hopes on emerging talents like Kuldeep Yadav and Sai Sudharsan. “Kuldeep could be India’s trump card,” he said, praising the left-arm wrist spinner’s ability to exploit turning conditions in England, particularly from day three onwards. Sai Sudharsan, meanwhile, is poised to make his Test debut at Leeds.
Team India Faces Batting Transition
India’s batting order looks vulnerable after the retirements of icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Knight analyzed the current lineup, highlighting the importance of experienced opener K L Rahul. “I am a huge fan of K L Rahul opening the innings. His experience will be crucial,” Knight commented. He also backed Yashasvi Jaiswal, Karun Nair, and Sai Sudharsan to step up in this testing series.
Sai Sudharsan’s Technique Suits English Conditions
“Sai is a very good player,” Knight elaborated. “He plays late, keeps the ball under his eyeline, and doesn’t push out in front — traits that are vital for success in England.”
Shubman Gill’s Captaincy: Right Decision?
Knight called the appointment of Shubman Gill as Test captain a “wise decision” but acknowledged concerns about his form under leadership pressure. “Gill’s technical challenge comes when his front leg pushes across too much, especially against left-armers swinging into his pads,” Knight observed.
“Bumrah and Kuldeep Key to India’s Success”
Knight believes India’s bowling attack will define the series. “The focus should be more on the ball than the bat. Can India take 20 wickets? That’s the key question,” he said. Knight identified Jasprit Bumrah as the world’s best and emphasized Kuldeep’s role in exploiting middle overs when England may attempt to attack.
BCCI Faces Growing Criticism Over Selection Policy
The BCCI’s decision not to pick Iyer has fueled public debate, with many fans echoing Knight’s sentiments on social media. Iyer’s Champions Trophy heroics had made him a fan favorite, and his exclusion raises concerns over consistency in selection policies, especially during a period of transition for Indian cricket.
Team India’s Probable Batting Order
- KL Rahul (Opener)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (Opener)
- Sai Sudharsan (Debutant, No.3)
- Shubman Gill (Captain, No.4)
- Middle-order and bowling line-up expected to revolve around team balance and conditions
First Test Begins June 20 in Leeds
India will begin its five-match Test series against England starting June 20 at Leeds. The series marks a crucial phase for Indian cricket’s new generation as they attempt to win their first Test series in England since 2007.
Stay updated with our India vs England 2025 Updates for full tour coverage.
