Shreyas Iyer gets ignored again, Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh included: Ex-chief selector predicts India squad for Test series against England

Ahead of India's upcoming five-Test series against England, commencing June 20, former chief selector MSK Prasad offered his assessment of potential squad selections.

New Delhi: India's upcoming five-match Test series against England, starting June 20th, is a significant event, marking their first World Test Championship 2025-27 match. This tour is crucial for India, aiming to overcome recent setbacks against New Zealand and Australia. With the team announcement imminent, former chief selector MSK Prasad has speculated on potential squad members.

Former India selector MSK Prasad advocates for Sai Sudharsan's inclusion in the squad for the upcoming England series. Prasad believes Sudharsan's strong IPL performance and consistent consideration for the national team warrant his selection as a backup opener to Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma.

"Sai has to be a part of this England series. This is the ideal time for the new WTC cycle to begin. If Rohit is part of the squad, then he opens alongside Jaiswal and Sai can be the backup opener. I will leave it to the selectors to take that call. Sai might get his opportunity as the series progresses," he said.

During the discussion, Prasad advocated for Arshdeep Singh's inclusion in the team, citing the advantage a left-arm seamer would offer in England. He omitted Shreyas Iyer from his preferred lineup, opting for Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel as his spin bowling choices.

"Arshdeep would be my out-of-the-box pick. In English conditions, you need a left arm seamer. This guy is able to move the ball both sides. He's bowling 135s. He's very, very confident today. After taking 100 T20 wickets, I think he's smart enough to understand the nuances of the game. He also has county experience," Prasad said.

"Besides Gill, KL is another all-format player for you. Though Shreyas Iyer has done well in white ball cricket I won't pick him for the England series. Jaddu, Washy and Kuldeep are three spinners for me. Jaddu is an automatic pick, Washy as the all-rounder, and Kuldeep is a match-winner for me. I would not pick Axar Patel for this one Compared to Australia, Reddy the bowler will be more handy in English conditions," he added.