Beckenham, June 14 – India's highly anticipated intrasquad fixture between India and India A kicked off on a steady note, offering crucial match practice ahead of the five-Test series against England. The game, being the team's sole warm-up for the headline series, also heralded a new leadership era as Shubman Gill led the red-ball team for the first time after Rohit Sharma's Test retirement.

Batting first in favorable English conditions, the top order made maximum use. Skipper Shubman Gill appeared poised and classy, scoring a confident half-century characterized by classy shots and aggressive foot movement. KL Rahul, the other experienced player on the team, equaled Gill's contribution with a fluent fifty of his own, giving an indication of his role in India's changing middle-order strategy.

Shardul Thakur was the pick of bowlers on Day 1. While individual figures weren't made public, the BCCI confirmed that Thakur accounted for a couple of important wickets, taking maximum advantage of conditions available. Jasprit Bumrah, who is likely to play a pivotal role in the series ahead, bowled an ultra-short but high-intensity spell, getting into the rhythm early.

Teenagers Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal also had some time in the middle, although they were probably dismissed after making promising beginnings. In the absence of official scores being released, attention was on individual application and preparation for the England series. 

New Era Begins Amid Emotional Backdrop

This intrasquad match also signifies the opening of a new chapter in Indian cricket, with the retirements of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin redefining the identity of the team. The game is a make-or-break test for the next generation, especially considering India's traditional failure in English conditions.

📍 Beckenham

A solid Opening Day in the Intra-Squad game!

Half-centuries for KL Rahul & Captain Shubman Gill 👌 👌

Shardul Thakur amongst the wickets 👍 👍 pic.twitter.com/7lfEFoL4KE

— BCCI (@BCCI) June 13, 2025

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The players sported black armbands on Day 1 as a gesture of respect for victims of a recent calamity, with BCCI posting pictures in solidarity with mourning families. Head coach Gautam Gambhir was not present in the camp, having flown back to India because of a family crisis.

Despite the emotional undertone, the Indian team remained focused as the match continued until June 16 — a crucial opportunity for players to fine-tune their skills before the opening Test at Leeds.