The highly anticipated England vs India five-Test series officially kicks off at Headingley, Leeds on June 20, 2025, marking the beginning of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle for both sides. With the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy on the line, the spotlight is firmly on Shubman Gill, who takes over as India’s Test captain, and Ben Stokes, who continues to lead England’s red-ball resurgence.

As fans eagerly await the action-packed Day 1 encounter, all eyes have turned towards the weather forecast, a critical factor in English cricket conditions.

ENG vs IND Day 1 Weather Forecast: Clear Start for Both Sides

According to the latest meteorological predictions, June 20, 2025, in Leeds is expected to be partly sunny and hot, with temperatures peaking at 31°C. This comes as good news for cricket fans and players alike, as there is only a 5% chance of rain throughout the day.

In the evening session, conditions are projected to be partly cloudy, with the rain probability remaining at 5%, which means interruptions are highly unlikely. The humidity level is anticipated to hover around 54%, a moderate figure that shouldn't trouble fast bowlers excessively.

Such conditions suggest a good batting day, with possible early movement in the air during the first session, followed by drier spells later that may assist spinners and reverse swing bowlers.

Significance of the Match: A New Era Begins

The India vs England series is a monumental one for several reasons:

• It marks the start of the 2025–27 WTC cycle for both teams, providing early opportunities to gather crucial points.

• India has undergone a leadership shift, with Shubman Gill named Test captain, and Rishabh Pant returning to the setup as his deputy and main wicketkeeper.

• The new-look squad includes young talents like Sai Sudharsan, Nitish Reddy, and Harshit Rana, indicating a transitional phase in Indian Test cricket.

Meanwhile, England, under Ben Stokes, is building on the momentum of their ultra-aggressive Bazball approach, looking to stamp authority right from the first Test.

India’s Squad: Blend of Experience and Youth

India’s squad for the five-match series brings together seasoned players and fresh faces:

Batters and Wicketkeepers:

• Shubman Gill (Captain)

• Rishabh Pant (Vice-captain and Wicketkeeper)

• Yashasvi Jaiswal

• KL Rahul

• Sai Sudharsan

• Abhimanyu Easwaran

• Karun Nair

• Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)

All-rounders and Bowlers:

• Nitish Reddy

• Ravindra Jadeja

• Washington Sundar

• Shardul Thakur

• Jasprit Bumrah

• Mohammad Siraj

• Prasidh Krishna

• Akash Deep

• Arshdeep Singh

• Kuldeep Yadav

• Harshit Rana

This combination highlights depth in the pace department, with Bumrah and Siraj likely to spearhead the attack on a surface traditionally known for seam movement.

England’s Squad: Continuity with Flair

Led by Ben Stokes, England's squad continues to reflect their dynamic style of play:

Batters and Wicketkeepers:

• Zak Crawley

• Ben Duckett

• Ollie Pope

• Joe Root

• Harry Brook

• Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper)

All-rounders and Bowlers:

• Ben Stokes (Captain)

• Chris Woakes

• Shoaib Bashir

• Jacob Bethell

• Brydon Carse

• Sam Cook

• Josh Tongue

• Jamie Overton

Notably, Joe Root will return to play at his home ground in Leeds, where he boasts a strong record, while newcomers like Shoaib Bashir and Jacob Bethell are expected to be tested under pressure.

Historical Context: Headingley Test Records

Headingley, one of England’s iconic Test venues, has traditionally favoured fast bowlers, especially in early summer. However, recent matches have shown that it can become a high-scoring ground once the ball loses its shine.

India’s past at Headingley includes the famous 2002 victory under Sourav Ganguly and their memorable win in 2021, when England bowled India out for 78, only for the match to swing back and forth dramatically.

Conclusion: All Set for a Sunny Start

The clear and hot weather forecast on Day 1 is a welcome development for players, fans, and broadcasters. With minimal rain threat, ideal batting conditions, and a full day of play expected, cricket fans can look forward to a thrilling opening day at Headingley.

As the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy begins under bright skies, India and England are primed to battle in what promises to be a fiercely contested Test series that could shape their WTC 2025–27 campaigns. With formidable squads, fiery leaders, and favourable weather, Day 1 is expected to live up to its historic billing.

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