BCCI Begins Planning for Challenging England Tour

With the IPL 2025 nearing its conclusion, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has shifted focus to the Indian team’s upcoming England tourwhich includes a crucial Test series. The tour is expected to test not only the team’s depth but also the decision-making of the selection committee.

According to internal sources, the BCCI has compiled a 35-player poolsegregated for the India A squad and the main Test side. Interestingly, Rohit Sharma is included in the poolbut his position as Test captain remains under review.

Team Selection Likely by Mid-May

The Indian squad for the England tour is expected to be announced by the second week of May 2025.

Rajat Patidar and Karun Nair have emerged as top contenders for middle-order slots and could be tested in the upcoming India A tourscheduled just before the England Tests. However, senior names like Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel are reportedly missing from the current shortlist.

Who Could Replace Rohit Sharma as Test Captain?

Should BCCI decide not to retain Rohit Sharma as captain for the England Tests, two likely candidates are being considered:

1. Hardik Pandya Though primarily known for his white-ball prowess, Pandya has been gradually groomed as a leader and could be considered for red-ball responsibilities as part of a long-term vision.

2. Suryakumar Yadav The current T20I captainSurya has impressed with his leadership and temperament.

   While not a regular in the Test setup, his rising stature in Indian cricket makes him a dark horse for the role.

As of now, no official confirmation has been made by the BCCI, but a strategic leadership shift could indicate India’s preparation for the post-Rohit era in red-ball cricket.