The upcoming five-Test series between England and India, commencing on June 20, 2025, at Headingley, Leeds, has sparked considerable debate and anticipation among cricket experts. While opinions vary, a common thread suggests a closely contested battle, with England holding a slight advantage due to home conditions, but India possessing the potential to push them hard.

Several former cricketers have weighed in with their predictions. Dale Steyn, the former South African fast-bowling legend, anticipates a thrilling series with each match producing a result. He forecasts England to win 3-2, emphasizing that all games will be closely fought without any runaway victories. Steyn highlighted the significance of this series as it marks a new chapter for Indian Test cricket, with the absence of veteran players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin, who have all recently retired from the longest format of the game. Shubman Gill will be leading India in this series.

Echoing a similar sentiment, former Australian captain Michael Clarke predicts a 3-2 victory, but in favor of India. Clarke acknowledged the Indian team is in transition but believes the young side led by Shubman Gill would edge out England. He also noted the significant impact of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's absence.

The series is particularly important as it marks the beginning of a new World Test Championship cycle for both teams. The conditions in England, especially with the "Bazball" approach, have been result-oriented, increasing the likelihood of decisive outcomes.

Former Australian player Brad Hogg believes that spinner Kuldeep Yadav would be the key to defining the fate of India's tour. Hogg highlighted Kuldeep's variations and his potential to make a significant impact in the series. He expressed his desire to see Kuldeep play all five matches, suggesting a batting order that includes Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep, along with pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna.

Robin Uthappa, another former Indian cricketer, shared his predicted India playing XI, featuring KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, Karun Nair, and Rishabh Pant in the top order. Uthappa emphasized the importance of Ravindra Jadeja in the lower middle order and included Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna as specialist bowlers alongside Jasprit Bumrah.

Deep Dasgupta also presented his Indian XI for the first Test, opting for two spinners, Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, along with three specialist seamers. He chose Karun Nair over Sai Sudharsan due to his experience.

Ultimately, the series promises to be a captivating contest between two strong teams. England's home advantage and aggressive approach give them a slight edge, but India's talented squad and determination to start the new WTC cycle on a high note mean they will undoubtedly push England all the way. The absence of key Indian veterans presents an opportunity for new players to step up and make a name for themselves, adding another layer of intrigue to this highly anticipated series.