Three Indian pacers will play the first Test against England

🏏 Three Pacers Likely to Lead India’s Attack

1. Jasprit Bumrah

• India’s pace spearhead remains an automatic pick when fully fit.

• Though management plans to rotate him (likely three Tests max), he’s expected to start in Leeds on June 20. 

2. Mohammed Siraj

• He famously delivered in India’s 2021 Lord’s win and is again trusted for English conditions.

• Despite recent rhythm challenges, selectors back his ability with the red ball. 

3. Prasidh Krishna

• Standing tall at around 6'4″, he offers bounce and lateral movement—both prized in English wickets.

• Seen as the third seamer in line-up, complementing Bomrah and Siraj.

Alternate Pick: Akash Deep has also been noted for his seam movement and could push for a role, but most reports expect the three above to form the main pace trio initially.

🎯 Will Kuldeep Yadav Be the X‑Factor?

Left‑Arm Wrist‑Spin in English Conditions

• With Ashwin retired, Kuldeep steps in as India's sole specialist spinner. 

• Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden predicts he could claim 20 wickets across the series. 

• Experts have flagged his unorthodoxy and knack for upsetting English batters. 

Kuldeep’s Mindset & Preparedness

• Kuldeep acknowledges the aggressive 'Bazball' mentality of England’s batting and stresses the need for alert, attacking bowling. 

• He brings experience, recalling last year’s tour and having played in challenging conditions.

Historical Proof from Dharamsala

• In India’s last Test vs England (Dharamsala, 2024), Kuldeep took a five-wicket haul, exposing England's spin sensitivity. 

🧩 Team Combination & Roles

This blend gives India a seam-heavy attack, with Kuldeep playing a pivotal role in middle-overs breakthroughs.

⚠️ Challenges & Game Plan

• Bumrah’s workload will be closely managed—he may be rested mid-series. 

• England’s attacking intent means Kuldeep must maintain relentless intensity; any slip-up might be punished.

• English pitches in early Tests may favour seam bowlers, delaying spin’s impact. Management must be tactful with Kuldeep’s usage.

🧠 Final Assessment

Yes—the first Test pace trio is all but confirmed: Bumrah, Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, with Prasidh possibly edging out Akash Deep in all likelihood.

As for Kuldeep Yadav—he holds genuine X-factor potential. His wrist-spin variation, confidence, and adaptability make him a unique threat in English conditions. If India use him smartly—mixing attacking spells with containment—he could well be the match-winner in key middle sessions and shift momentum decisively.

📌 Summary:

1. Three Pacers: Jasprit Bumrah (strike), Mohammed Siraj (experience), Prasidh Krishna (bounce).

2. Kuldeep Yadav: The lone specialist spinner; widely regarded as a potential game-changer with 20‑wicket potential if utilised effectively.