KKN Gurugram Desk | With the highly anticipated India vs England Test series scheduled to commence on June 20, the latest ICC Test rankings paint a vivid picture of where each side holds its edge. England’s batting is spearheaded by Joe Root and Harry Brook occupying the top two spots, while India boasts Jasprit Bumrah as the world’s No.1 Test bowler, supported by all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in the top 10. These rankings amplify expectations, signaling a classic bat vs ball showdown.

England Dominates Batting Rankings with Root & Brook

The ICC’s most recent Men’s Test batting rankings show:

• Joe Root (England) at No.1 with 888 points.

• Harry Brook (England) close behind at No.2 with 873 points.

• Kane Williamson (New Zealand) occupies the third slot.

India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has surged to No.4 with 847 points, a testament to his rising prominence. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, riding a comeback, sits at No.9 with 739 points, showcasing his evolving form .

Notably missing are Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both currently out of the top 10. Their absence hints at a generational transition within India’s top order. Nevertheless, Root and Brook’s dominance indicates England’s batting is a formidable challenge for any bowling attack.

India’s Bowling Arsenal Packs a Punch

India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, leads the ICC’s Test bowling rankings with a powerful 908 points—his personal high and a career milestone . His return strengthens India’s pace unit significantly.

Joining him, Ravindra Jadeja stands tall at No.10, the only spinner in the top 10 for India . Jadeja’s resurgence in Test cricket—with over 1,000 FC wickets and exceptional all-around performances—adds depth and versatility to India’s bowling attack.

By contrast, no English bowler features in the top 10, following the retirement of veterans like James Anderson. This gap potentially benefits India, especially in bowler-friendly conditions that reward swing and spin.

Series Preview: Batting Powerhouses vs Bowling Brilliance

Save a few best-performers outside the top 10 like Mohammed Siraj (India) and Mark Wood (England), this series will hinge on:

• England’s solid opening thanks to Root and Brook’s consistency.

• India’s lethal bowling trio led by Bumrah and Jadeja’s spin prowess.

Additionally, second-tier talents can tip the scales. A single impactful burst from Siraj or debutant pacers could turn the tide. Mental toughness and adaptability will be tested across five gruelling matches.

Shubman Gill & Ben Stokes: Captains in Focus

India’s new Test captain, Shubman Gill, will navigate his first full series leadership role. His calm demeanor and fresh perspective earn respect, though critics cite his youth as a challenge . In contrast, Ben Stokes leads England with experience and aggression, offering strategic firepower.

Expect both leaders to make bold calls—promoting matchups, rotating bowlers, and steering the game under pressure.

Key Players Outside Top 10 to Watch

Players outside the spotlight could be decisive:

• Mohammed Siraj: Known for extracting bounce from unresponsive pitches.

• Mark Wood: England’s fiery quick capable of heat-seeking yorkers.

• Ravichandran Ashwin: Cemented spinner with Test experience, ready to test seam?

• Yashasvi Jaiswal & Pant: Young batters whose form could swing momentum.

Rankings & World Test Championship Stakes

The ICC Test rankings are being closely tracked for insight, but the World Test Championship adds another layer. England and India compete not just for prestige but for WTC points. Players like Root and Bumrah amplify their team’s advantage both statistically and psychologically.

Armed with the No.1 Test batsmen and bowler, England and India are equally formidable but in distinct areas. If England’s top order stands firm, India may need a bowling masterpiece to seize control. Conversely, if Bumrah and Jadeja dominate, India could consistently challenge England’s scoring momentum.

KKNLive.com will provide live coverage, expert analysis, and pitch-by-pitch updates as this star-studded series begins.