England Test head coach Brendon McCullum has made it clear that his side will not be underestimating a young and evolving Indian team ahead of their highly anticipated Test series. Speaking ahead of the showdown, McCullum acknowledged that while the Indian squad may lack some of its most experienced names, they remain a formidable force—brimming with talent, hunger, and purpose.
“They will come here with high hopes,” McCullum remarked. “Just because some of their big names aren’t there doesn’t mean the challenge gets easier. In fact, it can get tougher in different ways.”
India’s squad for the series includes a number of fresh faces alongside a few seasoned campaigners. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma reportedly managing workloads and other senior players unavailable, the spotlight has shifted to a new generation of Indian cricketers who are eager to establish themselves on the international stage. Players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, and Mukesh Kumar have all shown glimpses of their potential, and McCullum believes these young guns could prove to be dangerous opponents.
“Young players bring an element of surprise and fearlessness. They don’t carry the baggage of the past and often play with a lot more freedom,” said McCullum. “It’s that kind of energy that can upset well-set teams.”
McCullum, who has transformed England’s Test cricket since taking over as head coach alongside captain Ben Stokes, is known for promoting aggressive and positive cricket—popularly dubbed “Bazball.” However, he knows India will arrive with not only motivation but also tactical discipline and a strong support system. With Rahul Dravid as head coach and a strong domestic setup feeding into the national team, India’s so-called “second-string” still commands respect.
He also pointed to India’s impressive bench strength, citing recent performances in both domestic cricket and India A tours. “It’s not about the names on paper. It’s about how they execute on the field. We’ve watched some of their youngsters in action—they are technically sound, mentally strong, and hungry to perform on the big stage,” McCullum noted.
The upcoming series, part of the World Test Championship cycle, carries added importance for both teams. England are eyeing valuable points to remain in contention for the WTC final, while India will want to prove that their transition phase is smooth and that they remain among the elite in red-ball cricket regardless of who dons the jersey.
McCullum also praised the depth of Indian cricket and the way it continuously produces players who are ready for international cricket. “That’s the hallmark of a great cricketing nation. When the seniors are away, the next lot steps up seamlessly. That’s why we’re preparing for a battle, not a walkover.”
With matches expected to be played on traditional English wickets that offer movement and bounce, England will back their pacers to exploit conditions. But they are equally aware that Indian batters—many of whom have toured England with India A and in county cricket—are better equipped now than ever before to handle these challenges.
As anticipation builds for what promises to be a fiercely contested series, McCullum words are a reminder that no opponent should be taken lightly, especially not a young Indian team looking to make its mark in a new era.
For more news updates, follow 12B Sports India Facebook .