(Keywords: England Test squad vs India, Jamie Overton comeback, England vs India 2025 Test series)
England have named a 14-member squad for the highly anticipated first Test against India, set to begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, with Jamie Overton making a long-awaited return to the red-ball side after nearly three years.
🔄 Overton Returns After 3-Year Test Gap
Jamie Overton, who last played Test cricket in June 2022 against New Zealand, has been recalled. However, there’s a concern — he fractured the little finger on his right hand during the first ODI against the West Indies on May 29. The England medical team is assessing him daily, leaving a slight question mark over his fitness for the first Test.
âś… Other Notable Inclusions
- Brydon Carse, the pace-bowling all-rounder, also returns after recovering from minor injuries.
- Chris Woakes and Jacob Bethell from Warwickshire have earned their places back after missing the New Zealand tour in December.
- Shoaib Bashir and Jamie Smith retain their spots following promising performances in recent matches.
Notably absent is Gus Atkinson, ruled out due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Zimbabwe Test at Trent Bridge.
🔍 England’s Full Squad for the 1st Test vs India:
- Ben Stokes (Captain)
- Shoaib Bashir
- Jacob Bethell
- Harry Brook
- Brydon Carse
- Sam Cook
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Jamie Overton
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Jamie Smith
- Josh Tongue
- Chris Woakes
🎯 Strategic Moves Ahead of High-Stakes Series
This squad reflects England’s strategy to blend youth and experience while covering injury uncertainties. The series also holds significance for the ICC World Test Championship (2025–2027) cycle, with both England and India eyeing an early lead.
Jamie Overton’s pace and lower-order power-hitting could provide balance, while Brydon Carse’s dual-skill role offers depth. The return of Chris Woakes strengthens England’s swing bowling options — crucial in English conditions against a strong Indian batting lineup.
🗓️ Key Match Info:
- Match: 1st Test – England vs India
- Date: June 20, 2025
- Venue: Headingley, Leeds
- Series: Part of ICC World Test Championship (2025–2027)
