The 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy will go down as one of the most riveting Test series in recent memory. For 25 days spread across nearly six weeks, India and England went toe-to-toe in a gruelling five-match Test battle that had everything—thrilling finishes, record-breaking feats, heroic performances, and emotional leadership on both ends. With the series ending 2-2, it was not just a tale of drawn results but of two equally matched cricketing powerhouses putting on a show for the ages.
Led by first-time Test captain Shubman Gill and England’s talismanic leader Ben Stokes, both sides delivered one compelling performance after another, making selection for the Best XI a challenging affair. Yet, certain individuals etched their names into the folklore of the series through sheer consistency and match-defining contributions.
At the top, KL Rahul was nothing short of magnificent. His 532 runs—laced with two centuries and three fifties—came under challenging English conditions. No opener had scored so prolifically in England since 2003, underlining his importance. Partnering him is Ben Duckett, who edged out India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal with 462 runs at a brisk strike rate of 82.94. His standout knock? A thrilling 147 in a high-stakes chase at Headingley.
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In the middle order, Joe Root was vintage Root—calm, classy, and record-chasing. With 537 runs and three centuries, he continued his pursuit of Sachin Tendulkar’s records for most runs and tons. But it was Shubman Gill, the 25-year-old skipper, who truly stole the spotlight. Leading from the front, Gill amassed a staggering 754 runs at an average of over 75, notching up four centuries. His maturity in high-pressure situations symbolized a new era for Indian Test cricket.
Harry Brook, England’s rising sensation, proved he was no one-season wonder. With 481 runs, including two centuries and a near-miss 99, Brook added flair and composure to England’s middle order, earning him the Player of the Series from the home camp.
Behind the stumps, Rishabh Pant once again proved why he’s India’s most valuable X-factor. Despite missing the final Test, Pant piled up 479 runs at an average of 68.42—the highest by a wicket-keeper in a Test series in England. His two centuries and three fifties weren’t just numbers; they were often game-defining.
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Captaincy in this Best XI goes to Ben Stokes, whose contributions were nothing short of heroic. He not only picked up 17 wickets—England’s best in the series—but also scored a crucial century in Manchester, finishing with 304 runs. His relentless commitment across departments earned him the leadership badge in this composite team.
Ravindra Jadeja was a revelation once again. At 36, the all-rounder showed no signs of slowing down. With 516 runs at an average of 86 and seven wickets, he underlined why he remains the No.1 all-rounder in the world. His ability to switch gears with the bat and deliver crucial breakthroughs with the ball was pivotal.
Among the bowlers, Mohammed Siraj was India’s iron man—delivering in every innings, every match. His 23 wickets included two five-wicket hauls, each contributing to Indian victories at Edgbaston and The Oval. Siraj’s stamina and consistency stood tall. Joining him was Josh Tongue, England’s unexpected hero. Though he played only three games, Tongue scalped 19 wickets, proving his worth in the long format. His raw pace and bounce troubled India’s best.
Jasprit Bumrah, though rotated to manage his workload, was vintage Bumrah when he played. Two five-fors and 14 wickets in just three games were enough to leave a mark, reaffirming his status as India’s ace pacer. The 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy may have ended without a winner, but it gave fans something rarer—unforgettable cricket. And these eleven warriors ensured their names are remembered long after the final ball was bowled.
Combined XI: KL Rahul, Ben Duckett, Shubman Gill, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Rishabh Pant, Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Josh Tongue Jasprit Bumrah.
