England have named their playing XI for the second Rothesay Test against India at Edgbaston, starting on Wednesday. The side, led by Ben Stokes, sees no major surprises after their thrilling win in the series opener at Headingley. The team includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and Shoaib Bashir — rounding off an unchanged and balanced unit built for English conditions.While the squad looks settled, fast bowler Jofra Archer’s availability for the rest of the series remains in question. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Archer missed training on Monday due to a family emergency.
England XI for 2nd Test against India
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (C)
- Jamie Smith (WK)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Josh Tongue
- Shoaib Bashir
Archer’s comeback has been one of the most anticipated storylines ahead of the 2nd Test. Having not played a Test since February 2021 due to persistent elbow injuries and a back stress fracture, his surprise inclusion in the squad turned heads. His recent County outing for Sussex, though modest in numbers, showcased glimpses of his old rhythm and raw pace, sparking renewed optimism among fans and selectors alike.
India, meanwhile, will look to bounce back after going 0-1 down in the five-match series. As England aim to press their advantage, all eyes will be on how India’s batters respond to the hosts’ unchanged pace arsenal.
IND vs ENG Series Schedule:
- 1st Test: England v India, 20-24 June 2025, Headingley, Leeds – England won by 5 wickets
- 2nd Test: England v India, 2-6 July 2025, Edgbaston, Birmingham
- 3rd Test: England v India, 10-14 July 2025, Lord’s, London
- 4th Test: England v India, 23-27 July 2025, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester
- 5th Test: England v India, 31 July-4 August 2025, Kia Oval, London
