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The new World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle has commenced with Australia and England leading with a perfect PCT of 100. Sri Lanka follows after their series against Bangladesh. India, despite Shubman Gill's team's impressive fight and five centurions, suffered a loss to England in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy due to a middle-order collapse.

Jasprit Bumrah's return to training has boosted India's bowling preparations for the Edgbaston Test after their Headingley defeat. Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, and Mohammed Siraj bowled in the nets, injecting intensity into the team's practice. While Bumrah's inclusion remains uncertain due to workload management, his presence offers hope as Team India aims to level the series.

England defeated India by five wickets in the first Test at Headingley, chasing down a target of 371, with Ben Duckett scoring a remarkable 149. Shubman Gill's captaincy debut faced scrutiny from former captains Nasser Hussain and Ravi Shastri, who questioned his on-field leadership and tactical decisions.

Gautam Gambhir, India's head coach, faces increasing scrutiny after the team's struggles in Test cricket, highlighted by a recent defeat to England under Shubman Gill's captaincy. With only one win in the last nine Tests, including series losses to New Zealand and Australia, pressure mounts. Aakash Chopra emphasizes the need for results, noting the selectors' support.

Former India player Ajinkya Rahane has suggested that captain Shubman Gill should utilise Shardul Thakur's bowling skills more effectively. Rahane believes Thakur, an experienced all-rounder, can be a valuable asset if given more opportunities. He proposed specific strategies to maximise Thakur's impact, including using him as a first-change bowler.

Shubman Gill aimed to be the series' top scorer and scored a century on his captaincy debut. However, India lost the first Test against England. While his batting wasn't affected, his leadership is developing. Coach Gautam Gambhir supports Gill. Ravichandran Ashwin suggested using Shardul Thakur earlier. Gill remained composed, but his field placements faced criticism.

KL Rahul prioritised national duty, choosing to prepare for the England Test series soon after becoming a father. He aimed to lead the team in the absence of senior players. Rahul's commitment was evident as he played an unofficial Test, scoring a century. He opened alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal and scored another century in the first Test.