July 1, 2025 - It has become very important for the Indian team to win the Edgbaston Test starting July 2, 2025. After losing the first Test match, if Team India loses in Edgbaston as well, the dream of winning the five-match series will come to an end. In such a situation, it is important that the young brigade, led by Shubman Gill, performs strongly at Edgbaston. Coach Gautam Gambhir is fully aware of this, and that is why he will not hesitate to take any bold decision for the sake of victory.

In the first match, the Indian team's bowling and lower-order batting were disappointing. While the top and middle order scored runs, the lower order failed, which stopped the team from reaching a competitive total. As for the bowlers, they had 371 runs to defend in the fourth innings but were unable to do so. These two areas remain a big concern for India.

Coach to Take Big Decision

India had played Shardul Thakur in the first Test to strengthen the lower-order batting, as he can contribute with both bat and ball. However, Thakur failed in both departments. Neither did he score runs nor did he make an impact with the ball. In the second innings, he gave India some hope by taking two wickets in two balls, but that was not enough to turn the match in India's favour. Now, in the second Test, Thakur is likely to be dropped. The biggest question is - who will replace him?

Nitish Kumar Reddy is a fast-bowling all-rounder who impressed during the Australia tour. While his bowling was not very effective, his batting was praised. He could be a strong option.

On the other hand, if India decides to go with two spinners, Washington Sundar may get a place in the playing XI. Though Kuldeep Yadav is also in the squad, Sundar has an edge owing to his batting ability. He can support Ravindra Jadeja in the spin department. Even the team's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, hinted in Monday’s  (June 30) press conference that India might play two spinners, and Sundar could be the second spinner.

If Not Bumrah, Then Who?

The team management has already said that Jasprit Bumrah will not play all five Tests in the series. However, it is still not confirmed whether he will play in the second Test or not. The assistant coach has said the final decision is yet to be made. If Bumrah is rested, Arshdeep Singh is the most likely replacement. Mohammad Siraj and Prasidh Krishna are expected to retain their spots, as the team is unlikely to drop them after just one game.

India’s Probable Playing XI:

Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Karun Nair, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Jasprit Bumrah/Arshdeep Singh