England Retain Unchanged XI for Edgbaston Test vs India
England have named an unchanged playing XI for the second Test against India, set to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The decision follows their five-wicket win in the opening Test, giving the hosts a 1–0 advantage in the five-match series.
The team management has opted to reward consistency, sticking with the same lineup that delivered a resilient performance at Headingley. The XI includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, captain Ben Stokes, wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and off-spinner Shoaib Bashir.
Archer Misses Out Again
Fast bowler Jofra Archer, who was recalled to the Test squad for the first time in over three years, will not feature in the Edgbaston clash. He missed training due to a family emergency and is expected to rejoin the squad later this week. The team remains hopeful of his inclusion for the third Test at Lord’s. England’s coaching staff remains cautious about his workload, given his injury history.
India Yet to Finalise XI
India, meanwhile, has not announced its playing XI for the Edgbaston Test. Team selectors are reportedly deliberating over several key decisions, including whether to rest Jasprit Bumrah and how to balance their spin attack. Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja are all in contention, with indications pointing toward a two-spinner strategy. With pace spearhead Mohammed Siraj likely to lead the bowling, the team may opt for a balanced four-bowler configuration depending on the pitch conditions.
Edgbaston Factor
Edgbaston has traditionally favoured England, not only for its seam-friendly conditions but also for the charged home crowd atmosphere that often rattles visiting sides. England will look to capitalise on this advantage and consolidate their series lead.
With momentum on their side, the hosts enter the second Test with confidence and cohesion. India, on the other hand, must regroup quickly, address selection questions, and find answers to counter England’s aggressive brand of cricket.
