IND vs ENG: VVS Laxman To Oversee India's Preparations In Gautam Gambhir's Absence - Reports

Team India are already in England ahead of the five-match Test series against the hosts. The India A side has played an unofficial Test match against the England Lions.

That followed an intra-squad match between India and India A. Players both teams had a go in the match with several positives coming out for the Indian team.

Sarfaraz Khan scored a century with some good batting practice for the likes of Sai Sudharshan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul. Jasprit Bumrah, the leader of the Indian attack had a tough day with the ball as he went wicketless on day 2.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Ravichandran Ashwin Addresses Fan Comment Asking Him to Leave CSK

Meanwhile, with Gautam Gambhir having to fly back to see his ailing mother, it is VVS Laxman who will be taking charge of seeing the developments with the Indian side. He is believed to be currently in London ahead of the U-19 team's tour of the United Kingdom. He will oversee the preparations till Gambhir joins the side. However, when will Gambhir rejoin the side is not yet known.

The Indian team, under the leadership of Shubman Gill will usher in a new era of Test cricket as they look to challenge England at home. They will have to do that in the absence of legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin. Kohli and Rohit announced their Test retirements last month while Ashwin announced his midway through the Test series against Australia.

Meanwhile, Michael Clarke, in his recent interview with Rev Sportz, spoke about the Indian team and believed that there is enough talent within the camp to challenge the mighty England in their own backyard.

Also Read: 'Marriage ah'? Anirudh Ravichander laughs at impending wedding rumors with Kavya Maran,

Gill Should Be Given Time As India Test Captain, Says Michael Clarke

He said that Shubman Gill needs to be given time before people start evaluating his captaincy. He also backed the choice of Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain in the side. The former Australia skipper also backed the selection of Kuldeep Yadav believing that he has gained experience as an international cricketer and is also in a good mental space.

With several of the Indian batters and bowlers coming up with good performances in the practice games, the selectors will find it challenging to select the side for the first Test starting from June 20.

Also Read:  What was the last ICC trophy that South Africa won as they break 27-year old jinx?