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Tamil Nadu southpaw Sai Sudharsan, who has edged out domestic stalwart Abhimanyu Easwaran, is all set to make his Test debut, and will be slotted in at the crucial No. 3 position, CricBlogger has learned from sources just hours before the first ball of the five-match Test series against England begins at Leeds on Friday.
As reported earlier by this website, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to open the innings for India, with newly appointed captain Shubman Gill taking charge at No. 4.
In all likelihood, vice-captain Rishabh Pant will bat at No. 5, with Karun Nair set to follow — rounding off a top six that blends experience, flair, and promise.
Sources also indicated that India might field only one spinner in the opening match — with Ravindra Jadeja expected to play that role. This move could see Shardul Thakur slotting into the XI in place of Nitish Reddy, bolstering the pace unit. The fast-bowling attack is likely to be spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, with Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna rounding out the pace trio, forming a balanced and competitive bowling lineup.
However, the final composition could still change. If the Leeds pitch shows signs of being dry and offering turn, the team management may consider adding a second spinner — possibly at the expense of a batter. The ultimate decision will hinge on a close inspection of the surface on match day.
Likely XI: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudeshan, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj.
I feel Kuldeep Yadav should be included in playing XI