India's predicted playing XI for the 1st Test vs England

All-rounders: Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin

Washi Sundar had a memorable Test debut

The role of the all-rounder is a tricky one to choose in the absence of the injured Ravindra Jadeja.

Hardik Pandya made his comeback to the Test squad, which indicates that he's fit to bowl. However, he has made noticeable changes to his action, and it might be unwise to make him bowl in a 5-day match without giving him adequate practice in the shorter formats.

Depending on whether the pitch appears to assist pace or spin, India could go in with either Shardul Thakur or Washington Sundar. The latter is in prime position to be given the nod on his home ground, due to the extra batting he provides and his brilliant all-round showing on Test debut recently.

This would mean that India go in with 3 spinners like they've done often at home in the past.

Following Sundar will be Ravichandran Ashwin, who jumps from being a bowler to an all-rounder thanks to his match-saving innings in the 3rd Test against Australia. The off-spinner has a superhuman record at home, and England will have to play out of their skins to counter him.

---

Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah

Kuldeep Yadav will finally get another opportunity in Test cricket

Kuldeep Yadav will be India's second-choice spinner against England, as has been pointed out by bowling coach Bharat Arun. The 25-year-old last played a Test in Sydney in 2018, and he desperately needs a strong showing to get his confidence back.

India have a number of quality pacers who've impressed over the last few months/years. With Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav injured, they're likely to go in with the experienced duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma.

While Bumrah hasn't played a Test at home yet, Ishant is making a much-awaited return from injury and should walk into the starting XI. This would be harsh on Mohammed Siraj, who finished the Australia series as the leading wicket-taker. But the experience and skillset of Ishant should give him the edge.