The Indian cricket team faces a crucial juncture as they gear up for the second Test against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on July 2, 2025. Having suffered a 5-wicket defeat in the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, India, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, will be eager to level the series. However, they will have to contend with likely changes to their playing XI due to a combination of workload management and strategic considerations.

One of the most significant changes expected is the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, the spearhead of India's pace attack. Reports suggest that Bumrah is being rested as part of workload management, a decision that could impact India's bowling strength. In Bumrah's likely absence, the team might bring in a replacement. Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep are potential replacements. Arshdeep could offer a left-arm option.

Another potential change involves the batting lineup. Sai Sudharsan, who made his debut in the first Test, might be dropped. Although he scored 30 runs in the second innings, he had a poor outing in the first innings. Washington Sundar is a possible replacement for Sudharsan, which would add depth to the team's all-round options. It's also likely that Karun Nair will be promoted to the no. 3 position.

There is also discussion about the inclusion of an extra spinner in the playing XI, considering the expected drier surface at Edgbaston. Ravindra Jadeja is likely to retain his place, and either Washington Sundar or Kuldeep Yadav could partner with him. While Kuldeep Yadav is an attacking option, India may prefer Washington Sundar for his batting depth.

Nitish Kumar Reddy is also in contention to replace Shardul Thakur. Shardul Thakur had a poor showing in the first test with both bat and ball. Nitish Kumar Reddy's inclusion would further bolster the all-rounder contingent in the team.

Considering these factors, India's likely playing XI for the second Test could look like this: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Akash Deep.

Meanwhile, England has already announced their playing XI, opting for an unchanged lineup from the first Test. This indicates their confidence in the winning combination and their determination to maintain their lead in the five-match series. The England XI includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and Shoaib Bashir.