The head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has praised Karun Nair’s comeback to India’s squad for the five-match test series against England.

The Indian cricket team is set to start a new era in the test format with the beginning of the new WTC cycle. The entire cricket fraternity was taken by surprise after skipper Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli announced their retirement from Test cricket.

The selection committee then appointed Shubman Gill as the new captain, who will begin his tenure with the upcoming five-match test series against England, starting from June 20 in Leeds.

Several players has received maiden call-ups for the test format. Batter Sai Sudharsan who impressed with his fiery batting performances in the IPL and also in the domestic cricket was named in the Test squad.

Pacer Arshdeep Singh, who made significant contribution for India in white-ball format, has finally earned his maiden call-up in the red-ball format.

Welcoming the youngsters, India head coach Gautam Gambhir wished the duo for lots of success.

“First Test calls are always very special, so I want to welcome Sai (Sudharsan), who had a fabulous last three months. Make sure you have a very very successful red-ball career. I want to welcome Arshdeep (Singh), you’ve been phenomenal with white ball cricket, I am sure, with a red-ball in your hand, you will make it count,” said Gambhir.

He also spoke about Karun Nair’s comeback in tests after seven years. “Guys, lastly, comebacks are never easy. Someone who made a comeback after 7 years. Had a phenomenal last year, the amount of runs you scored.”

“Most importantly, that never die attitude, never giving up attitude got you in the team. That is something which is inspiring for this entire group,” said Gambhir.

“I want to congratulate Shubman as well. There is no bigger honour in the country to lead your Test team. Congratulations. Rishabh as well, who is part of the leadership group now. Well done,” he added.

The first match of England-India tests will begin on June 20 at Headingley.