Table of Contents
As the highly anticipated Test series between England and India approaches, cricket pundits and fans alike are buzzing with predictions and ideal playing combinations. Former India batter Robin Uthappa has joined the conversation with his personal picks for India’s playing XI in the first Test, making some bold and interesting choices.
Robin Uthappa prefers KL Rahul as opener alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal in his India XI
Uthappa underlined the value of starting strong in English conditions and backed KL Rahul to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
“I believe that KL Rahul should start the innings. The way he has batted in Australia and England shows his ability to adapt. Opening with him could set the tone for the team,” said Uthappa on Star Sports.
While Rahul’s recent red-ball appearances have mostly been in the middle order, Uthappa believes his technique and overseas record make him ideal for the opening slot.
A fresh face at No. 3, experience in the middle
For the crucial No. 3 position, Uthappa has named Tamil Nadu’s Sai Sudharsan, backing his technique and temperament to thrive in the longest format.
“Sudharsan is technically sound and has the potential to succeed in Test cricket,” he stated.
Shubman Gill, who will be leading the side, is slotted in at No. 4 while Uthappa’s pick for No. 5 in Karun Nair.
“You need some experience at No. 5, and Karun has that. He has a triple hundred to his name; that’s not something you overlook,” Uthappa explained.
Star all-rounders to stabilize the lower-middle order
Uthappa picked Rishabh Pant as the wicketkeeper and a key batter at No. 6, a position he believes suits Pant’s aggressive yet match-defining style. Nitish Kumar Reddy, known for his all-round abilities, finds a spot at No. 7, offering a fourth seam option. Ravindra Jadeja, who has previously scored a century at The Oval, is placed at No. 8 to add depth to both batting and spin options.
Pace attack led by Jasprit Bumrah
India’s pace battery, according to Uthappa, should be spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj, known for his aggression and seam movement, partners him, while Prasidh Krishna rounds off the trio, offering bounce and pace.
Robin Uthappa’s India XI for the first Test against England: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Karun Nair, Rishabh Pant (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
Also READ: Sourav Ganguly voices concern over Shreyas Iyer’s snub from India’s Test squad for England tour
