England announces fresh-look squad for first Test against India

England have announced a 14-member squad for the opening Test against India, set to begin on 20 June, marking the commencement of both teams’ journey in the new ICC World Test Championship cycle. The squad reflects a transitional phase for England, with several fresh faces and a few notable exclusions from their earlier face-off with India.

All-rounder Jamie Overton makes a long-awaited return to the England Test side after his debut in June 2022 against New Zealand. Overton, despite nursing a broken little finger sustained in the recent ODI series against West Indies, has been named in the squad and is under close observation by the medical team.

The squad also sees the return of experienced pacer Chris Woakes, and a fit-again Brydon Carse, who was sidelined due to a toe injury during the Champions Trophy. The pace attack will be bolstered by Sam Cook, Josh Tongue, and Overton if declared match-fit, while Shoaib Bashir brings in the spin option alongside the pace-heavy lineup.

Ben Stokes, who recovered from a hamstring strain in time to lead England in their previous Test against Zimbabwe, will captain the side. England’s batting unit features a mix of aggression and class with names like Joe Root, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, and Zak Crawley providing depth and experience.

Notably, England’s new-look team signals the end of an era, with James Anderson now retired and regulars like Jonny Bairstow, Ben Foakes, and Ollie Robinson left out. The absence of these stalwarts opens the door for rising talents like Jamie Smith and Jacob Bethell to make their presence felt.

England, embracing change and youth, will aim to make a strong start on home soil, while India are expected to bring a full-strength squad hungry for overseas redemption.