As the World Test Championship Final kicked off between Australia and South Africa at Lord’s, there was a noticeable absence, Team India. For the first time in three cycles, India are missing from the biggest Test match of the calendar. But while the eyes of the cricketing world are on London, in Beckenham, something equally important is taking shape, a quiet rebuild for the Indian Test team.
India had their first official practice session yesterday ahead of the much-anticipated five-match Test series against England. And it already gave a glimpse into the direction this new-look side is heading.
Yashasvi Jaiswal spent time deep in conversation with mentor Gautam Gambhir before taking the nets, playing with control and maturity, opting for risk-free cricket. Nitish Kumar Reddy bowled a significant number of overs, signalling his rise as a serious candidate for the seam-bowling all-rounder slot.
Captain Shubman Gill looked composed and assured, batting with poise, a visual cue of his readiness for leadership. Rishabh Pant batted with typical flair and confidence, while KL Rahul’s clarity in leaving deliveries outside off stump stood out. Dhruv Jurel’s simulation session alongside Pant was another intriguing element, India clearly investing in their keeping depth after his strong A-tour performance.
On the bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna seemed in rhythm, near-certain starters in the playing XI, though final decisions may emerge after the intra-squad match later this week.
With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli having bowed out, the leadership mantle now rests with Gill. The side is young, experimental, and filled with players fighting for long-term roles. Players are trying to script their own redemption arc in a post-Rohit-Kohli era. A new cycle, a new captain, and a long road ahead. The rebuild has officially begun.