#2 Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin has been India’s number one weapon in the test format from the bowling attack, and he has been batting well in recent times, which is an added advantage down the order. The off-spinner has all the variations in the book, and he is an excellent asset to the team with his match-winning ability. He is a significant force to reckon with against the left-handers and has some stunning numbers against them.
Ravichandran Ashwin has different actions for conditions, and he changes it according to the nature of the surface. However, he has understood the game better in overseas conditions and is looking well set for a good series under the belt for him. He can also bowl those long spells, which give him the edge over the bowlers, and he is going to be essential to India’s plans if they have to get over the line against a tough England side.
#1 Virat Kohli
Without any choice, the skipper Virat Kohli will be the most important player for India in the Test series against England, and his recent concerns with a stiff back will be a big one to swallow for the Indian fans. Kohli had a terrific series last time around in England, and he showed significant signs of improving his play in the wide off stump line troubled by James Anderson particularly. However, he is a fighter, and champion players work on their weaknesses from the previous tours.
Kohli will be aware that he hasn’t scored an international century for almost two years now, and this will be the best time for him to get out of the rough patch, according to his standards. The right-hander will have to go through a tough battle against the likes of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, who will definitely come hard at him. He set the tone for the innings, and he can have a significant impact on how things turn out for India. The Indian captain is also one of our 5 choices for the leading run scorer for this series.
