IND vs ENG: Three key battles that could decide the five-match Test series

IND vs ENG: Three Key Battles That Could Decide the Five-Match Test Series

England and India are poised for a thrilling five-match Test series, commencing Friday at Headingley. Ben Stokes will lead England against India, now captained by Shubman Gill. India aims to secure their first Test series victory in England in 18 years. This series marks the beginning of a new World Test Championship cycle. India enters the competition without experienced players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Bumrah v England's Top Order

Jasprit Bumrah is a central figure in the series, recognized as one of cricket's leading bowlers. He has taken 205 Test wickets, averaging under 20. The 31-year-old was named ICC men's cricketer of the year for 2024 after securing 71 Test wickets at an average of 14.92.

Wisden editor Lawrence Booth highlighted Bumrah's unique bowling style, acknowledging he was "uniquely challenging" when naming him the leading men's cricketer in the 2025 edition.