England vs India: Pope & Woakes in 1st Test Squad
- England's cricket squad sees the return of Chris Woakes, recovered from an ankle injury, and the likely home Test debut of Brydon Carse, who overcame a foot problem.
- Carse, typically a change bowler, might share the new ball with Woakes. He has opened in 16 of 94 first-class innings, taking 2 wickets for 246 runs.
- Cook and Jamie Overton will miss out on selection, while Atkinson is sidelined due to a hamstring injury.
Chris Woakes is back, and Brydon Carse is set for a potential home Test debut as England gears up to face India, shaping key player roles in the upcoming series. Recovered from injury, Woakes bolsters the bowling attack, while Archer eyes a return, adding another dimension to the team’s strategy. India’s lineup is undergoing a transformation wiht a revamped batting order following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, promising fresh challenges and an exciting contest. Carse’s potential opening role and Archer’s comeback are central to England’s strategy, intensifying the competition. News Directory 3 brings you all the latest updates. Discover what’s next as both sides prepare for high-stakes cricket.
Woakes and Carse Ready for England-India Test Series; Archer Nears Return
Updated June 18, 2025
England’s cricket squad sees the return of Chris Woakes, recovered from an ankle injury, and the likely home Test debut of Brydon Carse, who overcame a foot problem. Both are poised to play a significant role in the upcoming series against India.
Carse, typically a change bowler, might share the new ball with Woakes. He has opened in 16 of 94 first-class innings, taking 2 wickets for 246 runs. “I’m relishing that prospect,” Carse said,recalling his comfort opening during the one-day series against west Indies. “If that opportunity awaits, it’s something I’m looking forward to.”
Cook and Jamie Overton will miss out on selection, while Atkinson is sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Atkinson, though, is expected back later in the series. jofra Archer, also at Headingley on Wednesday, continues his comeback from a series of injuries that have kept him out of first-class and Test cricket as 2021.
Archer,30,is slated to play for Sussex in the County Championship at Durham,starting Sunday,after recovering from a thumb issue. A accomplished outing could see him return for the second Test against India at Edgbaston or the third at Lord’s. His return would bolster England’s bowling attack.
India, simultaneously occurring, has yet to announce its XI. The team will feature a revamped top order following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli after their tour of Australia in January. Rishabh Pant will remain at five, with Shubman Gill, the new captain, batting at four, as confirmed Wednesday.
Carse acknowledged the changes in the Indian side. “They have lost two of their most established, world-class batters, but we all know the quality that India have,” he said. “Whatever side they put out, they will have a lot of quality. It will certainly bring different challenges, and it’s exciting. Two good sides going against each other, with the same goal.” The test series promises high stakes.
What’s next
Cricket fans eagerly await Archer’s performance for Sussex, wich will determine his readiness for a potential return to the England squad against India. The series promises intense competition as both teams adjust to new player dynamics.