Shubman at 4, Pant at 5… But who takes No. 3? Team India’s Playing XI Cloaked in Suspense!

Sports News: Team India embarks on its journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle today with a high-stakes opening match against England at Headingley. This match is not only the first in the five-Test series but also marks the beginning of India’s quest for a spot in the WTC final. For both teams, the encounter carries significant weight.

England has announced its playing XI in advance, while India’s final lineup will be revealed at the toss. However, insights shared by vice-captain Rishabh Pant have offered hints about India’s possible team combination.

Shubman Gill Likely to Bat at No. 4

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Pant indicated a shift in India’s batting order, revealing that Shubman Gill is expected to bat at number four, with Pant himself expected to follow at number five. However, the player for the crucial number three slot remains uncertain, as Pant chose not to disclose any names.

Meanwhile, a video shared by the BCCI on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has sparked speculation that Karun Nair might be returning to the playing XI after a long hiatus. If selected, he could be slotted in at number three.

Karun Nair’s Emotional Return After 8 Years

In the video posted by BCCI, Karun Nair expressed deep emotions about the possibility of representing India again.

“Returning to the Indian team has always been my dream. Every single day, I woke up thinking about how to wear the Indian jersey again. Getting another chance feels incredibly special.”

If he plays today, this Test will mark a powerful comeback moment for Nair, who last featured for India in March 2017, during the Dharamsala Test against Australia. Over the past several years, he has worked hard in domestic cricket to regain a place in the national squad.

This is Karun Nair and he is 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗼! 👍 👍#TeamIndia | #ENGvIND | @karun126

— BCCI (@BCCI) June 20, 2025

Nair’s Test Career: Glimpses of Brilliance

Nair made his Test debut for India in November 2016 against England in Mohali. In his brief Test career so far, he has played 6 matches, scored 374 runs across 7 innings, including a historic 303 not out against England in Chennai—making him only the second Indian to score a triple century in Test cricket. Despite this extraordinary feat, Nair has struggled to find a regular place in the side, and today could finally bring the redemption he has been working toward.

His return could provide a much-needed boost to India's middle order—especially in English conditions where technical proficiency is vital.

Toss to Reveal Final Playing XI: Fans Wait in Anticipation

While there’s a lot of buzz and speculation around India’s lineup, the official playing XI will only be confirmed at toss time. The big questions remain:

• Will Karun Nair return to Test cricket after an eight-year absence?
• Will Shubman Gill settle into the number four role?
• Can Pant strengthen the middle order as expected?

Cricket fans across the world are eagerly awaiting the toss, which will finally unveil the answers and kick off what promises to be a thrilling series.