How familiar are you with Ben Stokes's England? Meet the first-timers vs India

India Today

20-06-2025

While the spotlight will be on the Indian team with Shubman Gill taking charge as the Test captain, the hosts, England, are also in a transition of their own. The side has brought in new talents in both the batting and bowling departments who will be facing India for the first time when the two sides meet in the first of a five-match Test series in Headingley.advertisementA mix of experience and potential seems to be the theme with which both squads have been built. However, some of the new faces have the chance to showcase why they should be considered to be the future of the Test team.Let us have a look at these names and what we can expect from them in this five-match affair. | Leeds Test, Day 1 Updates |HARRY BROOK
The 26-year-old star from Yorkshire has been touted to be the next big thing in English cricket after Joe Root. He has already taken the captaincy role in the limited-overs setup, but now he will be focused on making his mark in his first encounter against India. Despite being a talented batter, Brook has yet to showcase his dominance, at least at home. When looking at the numbers, he has played in England, New Zealand and Pakistan, where he averages 39, 75, and 84, respectively.advertisementConsidering he has some experience under his belt, he will certainly fancy his chances of putting up some big runs, especially against a worthy opposition like India, to show he has what it takes to perform in the big games.JAMIE SMITHThe Surrey-based wicketkeeper-batter has been known for his attacking intent, something that we usually see in Bazball. Embracing the approach altogether, the 24-year-old has arguably cemented the spot as the lead keeper. However, it will be interesting to see how he fares when it comes to the bowling quality that India holds. Jasprit Bumrah and co are not the ones that usually get pummelled for runs, and it could be an interesting watch should he opt for the attacking approach against the Indian bowling unit.In addition, he also seems to have got a hold of the conditions at home. He averages 49.10 at home as compared to 30 when playing away. His dynamism when coming out to bat could be a game-changer for England, which could bail them out of a dire situation if need be.BRYDON CARSEThe bowling all-rounder has been in the mix when it comes to the white-ball scene, but has been putting in impressive performances with the ball. In the five Tests he has played, he has taken a total of 27 wickets. This will also be his first game at home, and it is very much a possibility that he will be a problem, considering that most of his wickets have come in New Zealand, an area with relatively similar conditions to the UK.advertisementBorn in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), South Africa, Carse carries a tattoo of its coordinates—anchoring his roots in every spell. He's the son of James Alexander Carse, a former Zimbabwean cricketer who played county cricket for Northamptonshire in England.JOSH TONGUEThe 28-year-old pacer has been on the fringes for the most part. But in the few games he has been a part of, he has certainly made an impact. On his Test debut at Lord's against Ireland, Tongue ran riot in the second innings, taking a five-for. He even featured in the Ashes, where at Lord's he was able to finish with five wickets as well, showcasing that he can perform against top teams as well.He is one that looks to make use of the wobbled seam to his advantage, something different compared to the traditional swing bowlers, and this could be a handful, especially during times when variable bounce is prevalent.