Cricket

England Announce Squad for First Test Against India, Overton Set for Comeback

by iGK

Modified: June 5, 2025 4:40 PM

England Announce Squad for First Test Against India

In a significant boost for England, fast bowler Jamie Overton has earned a recall to the Test squad for the series opener against India, starting June 20, 2025, at Headingley, Leeds. The 31-year-old, who last played a Test in June 2022 against New Zealand at the same venue, is poised to make his mark after nearly three years on the sidelines. However, Overton’s participation is subject to his recovery from a broken little finger sustained during the first ODI against the West Indies on May 29, 2025. England’s medical team is monitoring him daily.

Joining Overton in the 14-member squad are seamer Brydon Carse and Warwickshire duo Jacob Bethell and Chris Woakes, all of whom return after missing England’s recent Test victory over Zimbabwe due to minor injuries. The trio last featured during the Test tour of New Zealand in December 2024.

Unfortunately, pace bowler Gus Atkinson has been ruled out of selection due to a hamstring injury picked up during the Zimbabwe Test at Trent Bridge last month. The rest of the squad, captained by Ben Stokes, includes familiar names like Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, and Josh Tongue.England’s selectors have opted for a balanced squad, blending experience with emerging talent, as they prepare to face a formidable Indian side. Fans will be eager to see if Overton can seize this opportunity and if the returning players can hit the ground running in what promises to be a thrilling Test match.

England Squad for 1st Test vs India: Ben Stokes (C), Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.Stay tuned for updates on Overton’s fitness and England’s preparations for this blockbuster clash!