IND vs ENG: England playing XI for first test announced

IND vs ENG first test will be played in Hyderabad from 25th January, 2024.

The much-anticipated five-match test series between India and England is set to kick off on January 25th at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. England, encouraged by their recent success with the innovative ‘Bazzball’ approach in test cricket, are eager to continue their streak. Meanwhile, India, a formidable force on home soil, will aim to maintain their dominance. Indian star batter Virat Kohli has made himself unavailable for the first two tests, leaving a void that will undoubtedly be felt by the team.

England, under the leadership of Ben Stokes, have adopted a new strategy in test cricket termed ‘Bazzball.’ This approach has yielded positive results and the visitors are keen to implement it against the formidable Indian side.

England announce playing XI for Hyderabad test

The visitors, England have announced their playing XI for the first test, featuring some notable inclusions and exclusions. The team will witness the test debut of 24-year-old left-arm spinner Tom Hartley, who has showcased his skills by picking 40 wickets in 20 first-class matches, including a notable five-wicket haul.

Despite the absence of Shoaib Bashir due to visa delays, English squad boasts spin depth with Rehan Ahmed and Jack Leach joining Hartley. Joe Root is set to contribute as the fourth spinner, showcasing England’s commitment to their spin-heavy strategy.

Notably, the playing XI has only one seamer in Mark Wood, with veteran James Anderson being benched. Captain Ben Stokes, managing knee issues, is slated to play as a specialist batter. The opening pair will consist of Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, with Ollie Pope holding the pivotal number three spot. Joe Root, at his preferred number four position, will be a key contributor while Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes are set to handle the batting responsibilities at five and seven, respectively.

Ben Foakes will take up the wicket-keeping role given his proficiency behind the stumps. The exclusions of Shoaib Bashir, James Anderson, Ollie Robinson and Gus Atkinson underscore the competitive selection process.

England’s playing XI for the first test against India:

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (C), Ben Foakes, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, Jack Leach.

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