Photo Credit: The Indian Express
India is expected to make significant changes for the second Test against England at Edgbaston, set to begin on July 2. With the series currently 0–1 in favor of England, the team management is rethinking combinations and workload management to bounce back effectively.
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has confirmed that young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is “very close to getting a game.” After India’s lower-order collapse in the first Test, Reddy’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a strong contender for a debut. He was seen participating actively in both batting and bowling drills during the team’s net sessions.
India is also likely to go with two spinners in Edgbaston. Washington Sundar impressed in practice sessions, bowling long spells alongside Ravindra Jadeja and batting confidently in the nets. His all-round credentials could provide the ideal balance India needs, especially on a surface that is expected to assist spin later in the game.
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled close to 44 overs in the first Test, may be rested to manage his workload for the rest of the tour. While he was present in the nets, he mostly engaged in light bowling and fielding drills. A final decision on his availability was expected within 24 hours of the match.
Kuldeep Yadav, despite being in the squad and part of training sessions, is unlikely to be picked. He bowled in side lanes, away from the main action, which suggests the team might prefer Washington Sundar’s additional batting ability.
In the pace department, with Bumrah likely sitting out, the attack could feature Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and either Arshdeep Singh or Akash Deep. Both had extended spells in the nets and looked sharp, giving the team viable alternatives.
India might also make adjustments in the batting lineup. Field placements during practice indicated changes in the slip and gully fielding units. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had a poor outing in the first Test, may be reassigned from his usual cordon duties.
The Edgbaston pitch has around 11–12 mm of grass on the surface, but the dry underlayer suggests spin will come into play as the match progresses. With rain in the forecast and changing overhead conditions, India’s team balance will be crucial. The management is weighing the benefits of fielding more all-rounders versus going with a traditional bowling-heavy setup.
A likely playing XI for India at Edgbaston may include:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Karun Nair or Sai Sudharsan
- Shubman Gill (captain)
- Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Washington Sundar
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh or Akash Deep
- Prasidh Krishna
This combination provides India with both batting depth and spin variety while carefully managing the workload of key fast bowlers.
India’s selection strategy reflects a pragmatic and adaptive approach. The inclusion of younger, versatile players like Nitish and Washington could inject fresh energy into the squad. Resting Bumrah signals the importance of long-term planning, especially with back-to-back Tests and a lengthy tour schedule.
The second Test offers India a chance to reset and regain momentum. Whether these changes will be enough to level the series remains to be seen, but the message from the team is clear: adaptability and balance will be key to success at Edgbaston.
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