The India vs England 2nd Test starts on 2nd July at 3:30 PM IST at Edgbaston, Birmingham. England is ahead 1-0 in the five-match Test series. Team India is under pressure to level the series.
The big talking point? Jasprit Bumrah’s availability. He is fit and available, but may be rested. India planned to use him in only three Tests. So, will he be in the IND vs ENG, 2nd Test Predicted Playing XI?
Shubman Gill, the stand-in captain, has said the final decision will be made after the nets. The weather might play a part too—light rain is expected on Day 2 and Day 3, which could affect team combination, especially the bowlers.
England has already announced their playing XI. India’s lineup is still under wraps. But based on form, fitness, and strategy, here’s a look at the India predicted XI vs England, plus all the team news you need before the Birmingham Test.
Bumrah Is Available, But Not Certain
Shubman Gill, India’s stand-in captain, confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah is available for the second Test in Birmingham. But he also said a final call will be made after the nets session.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir had earlier said that Bumrah will play only three of the five Tests. This is to manage his workload. India wants to keep him fresh and avoid injuries.
So, will he play this one or be rested for a later match? That’s still not clear.
What Happened in the 1st Test?
Bumrah was brilliant in the first innings. He took 5 wickets for 83 runs. But in the second innings, he couldn’t get a single wicket.
India had a big total to defend, 371 runs. But England chased it down easily. This loss has put pressure on the team and the captain.
India’s Possible Playing XI for 2nd Test
Here’s our IND vs ENG, 2nd Test Predicted Playing XI for Team India:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Sai Sudharsan
- Shubman Gill (captain)
- Rishabh Pant (vice-captain, wicketkeeper)
- Nitish Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
- Akash Deep
What About England?
England is full of confidence. Their batsmen did well, especially in the second innings. Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow looked in top form. Their bowlers will try to repeat the pressure they put on India last time.
England Confirmed XI vs India:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (captain)
- Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Josh Tongue
- Shoaib Bashir
What Fans Are Saying
Many Indian fans want Bumrah to play all matches. He is our best fast bowler. But there’s also the fear of injury. If he plays too many games, it could be risky.
Some experts say India should use him in the 3rd and 4th Tests, where the pitches might help fast bowlers more.
Final Thoughts
Whether Bumrah plays or not, India needs to bounce back in the second Test. The predicted playing XI looks solid, but they must perform as a unit.
England is playing fearless cricket. India must be smart and bold.
Let’s wait for the toss. Until then, fingers crossed.
