Aakash Chopra, former India cricketer, has selected a combined XI of Indian and England players from the 21st century, with notable omissions like Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni.

India and England are competing for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, with the latter leading 2-1. The fourth Test will begin in Manchester on July 23.

Chopra picked Virender Sehwag and Alastair Cook as his opening pair.

“Who should open? There’s no question—Virender Sehwag, with his two triple centuries and huge run tally, and Alastair Cook, who’s been consistent and tough. Both score big runs,” Chopra said.

Deciding between Rahul Dravid and Joe Root for the No. 3 spot is a tough call. “As an Indian, I’d go with Rahul bhai, but I wouldn’t disagree if you picked Root instead. For No. 4, it’s clear—Sachin Tendulkar. No argument needed, he’s the finest ever.”

“At No. 5, there’s a choice to be made between Kevin Pietersen and Virat Kohli. As an Englishman, you might lean towards Pietersen, but I’m going with Kohli, you can’t leave him out.”

The former cricketer-turned-commentator selected Rishabh Pant as the wicketkeeper-batter.

“For No. 6, I pick Rishabh Pant. I can’t think of a better keeper from England to challenge him.”
Chopra picked Ben Stokes over Andrew Flintoff as the seam-bowling all-rounder.

“At No. 7, it’s Ben Stokes. He beats Andrew Flintoff, especially with his ability in big moments.”

“Ravichandran Ashwin makes my team as the lone spinner. While Graeme Swann or Harbhajan Singh could be considered, Ashwin’s consistent performances over the years make him the choice.”

“For fast bowlers, I have Sir Jimmy Anderson and Jasprit Bumrah. Anderson is a champion, and Bumrah is a must, no matter the venue.”

“Lastly, if the match is in England, I’d consider Zaheer Khan, but Stuart Broad is my pick—his record in these conditions is phenomenal. In India, I’d go for Ravindra Jadeja as the second spinner.”