India vs England: Players to watch out for in IND vs ENG Test series

India and England are set to lock horns against each other in the upcoming test series. The legacy of this rivalry is rich with iconic moments and legendary performances which will create an enthralling spectacle for the fans. Both the teams have had some intense clashes in the past which makes the rivalry even more special. 

In the past decade, the pendulum of success has swung both ways. England's triumph in 2012 marked the last time India faced defeat in a Test series on their home turf. However, the tables turned dramatically in 2016, with India, under Virat Kohli's captaincy, dominating the series 4-0. 

The momentum continued in 2021, with India securing a convincing 3-1 victory. Remarkably, in the last 11 years, India has lost only three Test matches out of 40 played in home conditions, showcasing their dominance.

The upcoming five-match Test series in 2024 promises a battle of giants, with cricketing legends from both sides taking centre stage. The likes of Kohli, Joe Root, Ravichandran Ashwin, and James Anderson bring a wealth of experience and a track record of stellar performances.

Let’s explore the top five players in the upcoming series who are ready to set the stage on fire:

1. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli (Source: X)

Virat Kohli is on the cusp of another historic milestone as he is just nine runs away from joining an elite club of Indian batsmen who've conquered England in Test cricket with 2000 runs or more. Kohli's dominance against the English isn't just a one-hit wonder. He's been a consistent force, churning out five centuries and nine half-centuries with an average of 42.36. 

But Kohli's magic goes beyond mere numbers. He's a master of adapting to any situation like a rock that steadies the ship when the batting crumbles around him. Whether it's facing fiery fast bowlers or spinners, Kohli finds a way to build partnerships and anchor the innings, guiding his team towards victory.

So, as India gears up for its next series against England, all eyes are glued to Kohli because of his consistency, adaptability, and his ability to carry the team on his shoulders making him the X-factor, the player who can turn the tide of any match.  

2. Joe Root

Joe Root (Source: X)

England's premier batsman Joe Root is a whisper away from etching his name in the record books. He needs just nine runs short to surpass the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most runs scored in a single India vs England Test series. He has been mesmerizing everyone with his elegant batting, averaging a whopping 63.15 against India. 

His technique is pure poetry in motion, with every stroke radiating his class and precision. But Root's magic goes beyond just runs he's the glue that holds England together like an anchor that steadies the ship when the batting order wobbles.

3. Harry Brook

Harry Brook (Source: X)

Harry Brook can be considered England's secret weapon and is one of England's most exciting batting talents of recent times who brings a fresh breeze into the England Test squad. Harry Brook adapts to tricky conditions pretty quickly and switches gears seamlessly between defence and aggression. 

He plays spin quite well and patiently manoeuvres the deliveries with delicate footwork. This clear-headed approach, and this fearless determination to take the game by the horns, makes him a player you simply can't ignore in the upcoming series.

4. James Anderson

James Anderson (Source: X)

England's veteran pace wizard James Anderson is about to add two more chapters to his legend as he's just a whisper away from becoming the first fast bowler in history to reach 700 Test wickets. Not only that, but he's also on the cusp of being the first-ever bowler to pick up 150 wickets in the India vs England Test series to date. 

Anderson is a seasoned campaigner for England with a wealth of experience and a shrewd mind. He knows every batsman's weakness and he uses this knowledge to weave his web of bowling spells that leave even the best batters bamboozled.

5. Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin (Source: X)

Ravichandran Ashwin, the experienced all-rounder and world's no.1 test bowler is on the verge of making history by achieving the milestone of 1000 runs and 100 wickets in the India vs. England series. 

Apart from his proficiency as an all-rounder, Ashwin's strategic spin bowling and significant contributions with the bat underscore his versatile skills. His wealth of experience and cricketing intelligence make him a pivotal player to keep an eye on in the upcoming series.