By Priya Sharma, Senior Sports Correspondent with 10 Years Covering International Cricket
Last Updated: June 19, 2025
1. Key Takeaway
- Breaking News: Shubman Gill, 25, has been appointed India’s 37th Test captain, succeeding Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. reuters.com
- Series Opener: India’s first match against England begins at Headingley, Leeds, on June 20.
- Weather Alert: Scattered showers forecast for the weekend could affect play.
Currently 68° · Mostly cloudy
Leeds, England, United Kingdom
| Today | 85°62° | Mostly cloudy and very warm |
 Saturday | 84°59° | Mostly cloudy and very warm; a couple of afternoon showers |
2. BCCI Announcement & Gill’s Reaction
On May 24, 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially named Shubman Gill as the country’s new Test captain. In a video statement on BCCI.tv, Gill expressed his gratitude and outlined his leadership focus:
“It is definitely a bit overwhelming, but I’m ready for the challenge. My priority remains contributing runs for India.”
— Shubman Gill, in his first interview as captain icc-cricket.com
Gill inherits a side in transition, following the retirements of former skippers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Having amassed 1,893 runs in 32 Tests at an average of 35.05, Gill’s own batting form and calm demeanor under pressure were key factors in the selectors’ decision. reuters.com
3. What Happens Next?
- Series Context
- This marks the start of the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle.
- India aims to break their England away-series drought.
- Team Dynamics
- Vice-captaincy: Rishabh Pant was named vice-captain over Jasprit Bumrah. espncricinfo.com
- Senior pros like Cheteshwar Pujara have joined training nets to mentor the young squad. timesofindia.indiatimes.com
- Leeds Weather Watch
- Friday, June 20: Mostly cloudy and very warm (High: 30°C)
- Saturday, June 21: Possible afternoon showers — light delays likely.
4. Expert Insights
“Headingley’s outfield can become sticky quickly when rain seeps in. Teams may need longer covers and quick drainage solutions.”
— Dr. Emma Collins, Climatologist, UK Met Office (profile)
5. Daily Digest
Stay updated on the India vs. England Test series:
- Preview: Match tactics and playing XI speculation
- Live Updates: Session-by-session scorecards
- Post-Match Analysis: Expert breakdown and player ratings
6. Fact-Check
- Appointment Source: Official BCCI press release & BCCI.tv video statement.
- Player Stats: Verified via ESPNcricinfo’s player database.
- Weather Data: Sourced from the UK Met Office forecast.
