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With the much-awaited England vs India Test series set to begin on June 20, the cricketing world is buzzing with excitement. Scheduled to kick off at Leeds, the five-match red-ball battle promises intense action, historic rivalries, and a test of character for both sides. India, under a transitional phase, will face the formidable challenge of an in-form England side led by Ben Stokes, who has revolutionized the team’s approach to Test cricket with his fearless ‘Bazball’ mindset.
This series also marks a new chapter for India without the presence of their two superstars – Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli – in the longest format. As the countdown begins, the spotlight is on how India will adapt and who will step up in the absence of their modern-day legends.
Ben Stokes on what India are going to miss
Speaking ahead of the series, England captain Stokes opened up on what Team India will be lacking without Kohli in their ranks. In a video released by England Cricket, Stokes paid tribute to the former Indian skipper, acknowledging his intensity and unmatched passion for Test cricket.
“I think what India will miss will be his fighting spirit out in the game, his competitiveness, and his desire to win. He has made number 18 his, hasn’t he? It’ll be a bit weird not seeing number 18 on the back of any Indian shirt, but he has been class for them for a long period of time,” said Stokes
Stokes also shared a personal moment, revealing that he texted Kohli after the retirement news broke. The Christchurch-born cricketer reckoned that he loved playing against the former India skipper.
“I did text him, saying it’s going to be a shame not to play against him because I love playing against Virat. We both love playing against each other because we have that same mindset when we are out in the field—that it’s a battle,” added Stokes.
Also READ: Kevin Pietersen picks Team India’s batting order for the first Test against England
Stokes vs Shubman Gill: Experience meets ambition in leadership duel
While Kohli’s absence leaves a void, it also presents a stage for the new generation to lead. In particular, all eyes will be on the tactical battle between England’s seasoned leader Stokes and India’s rising star Shubman Gill, who is being seen as a key leadership figure in India’s setup.
Stokes brings a wealth of experience and a fearless philosophy that has redefined England’s Test game, while Gill, fresh off a successful run as Gujarat Titans captain in the IPL, is being groomed for bigger responsibilities in Indian cricket. Their contrasting styles—Stokes’ aggressive, instinct-driven approach versus Gill’s calm and calculated demeanor—make this captaincy face-off a fascinating subplot.
As the series unfolds, fans can expect not just thrilling cricket but also the emergence of new heroes and rivalries. One thing is certain—the battle for supremacy in Test cricket between England and India is far from over, and it’s about to get fiery.
Also READ: 3 reasons why Shubman Gill will be a successful Indian captain in the England tour
