This series will initiate the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, with India embarking on their first red-ball campaign under the captaincy of Shubman Gill. England had a challenging conclusion in the last WTC, finishing fifth in the standings. Gill’s team is rebuilding after missing out on the finals for the first time in WTC history, following two successive runner-up finishes.
“The talent pool in Indian cricket is enormous,” Stokes mentioned during a press conference on Thursday. “(Rohit, Kohli and Ashwin are) three significant figures who have made remarkable contributions to their country, but the absence of these big names does not make our task any easier.”
Since Stokes took over the captaincy, England has triumphed in 23 Tests, with 12 losses, and will face 10 Tests this year—five each against India and Australia. They kickstarted the English summer with a resounding victory by innings and 45 runs against Zimbabwe.
Before that, their previous Test series saw them secure a 2-1 win over New Zealand at the end of 2024.
“We still aim to be recognized as a team that plays an exhilarating style of cricket,” Stokes stated.
“(It’s) not that we never wanted to win every match, but it’s about altering our approach and our communication. We strive to play thrilling matches because that’s what brings the best out of individuals and us as a team. Ultimately, it’s about securing victories.”
For the first Test in Leeds, England has opted to select Ollie Pope over Jacob Bethell, as Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse make their return to the squad.
“(Pope) scoring 170 in his last Test match (against Zimbabwe) demonstrates how well he’s handled the added pressure,” Stokes remarked.
“Since Baz (England coach Brendon McCullum) and I have been together, we haven’t lost a game when Chris Woakes is in the team. Great to have him back,” he added.
First Published: Jun 20, 2025 12:43 PM IST
