Introduction: The Passing of the Baton at Headingley
In a moment that tugged at the heartstrings of Indian cricket fans around the world, Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s dependable former No. 3 batter, handed the Test debut cap to B. Sai Sudharsan ahead of the 1st Test against England at Headingley, Leeds. As part of the newly inaugurated Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, this quiet gesture marked a symbolic “passing of the torch” moment, especially for followers who understand the significance of the one-down spot in India’s Test batting order.
Cheteshwar Pujara and the Sacred No. 3 Position
Cheteshwar Pujara, often referred to as the “Wall 2.0” of Indian cricket, made his Test debut in 2010. Soon after Rahul Dravid’s retirement, Pujara was entrusted with the sacred No. 3 slot—arguably one of the most crucial positions in Test cricket. Over the next decade, he would come to symbolize resilience, grit, and an old-school temperament in an era increasingly dominated by aggressive stroke play.
Key Achievements:
- Over 7,000 Test runs
- Multiple match-saving performances in Australia, England, and at home
- Vital cog in India’s overseas successes
Though Pujara hasn’t officially retired, he’s been out of favor since the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2023, replaced first by Shubman Gill, and now by 23-year-old Sai Sudharsan.
Sai Sudharsan: The Natural Successor?
Baba Sai Sudharsan, a technically sound left-hander from Tamil Nadu, has quietly risen through the ranks with performances in domestic cricket, India A tours, and standout moments in the IPL. Known for his compact defense and ability to build long innings, many fans and pundits believe he’s the most natural fit for the No. 3 position since Pujara.
Sudharsan’s Journey So Far:
- Stellar First-Class average close to 60
- Consistent run-getter for Tamil Nadu
- Eye-catching knocks in India A matches
- IPL temperament under pressure
The decision to have Cheteshwar Pujara hand Sudharsan the cap wasn’t just ceremonial—it was emblematic. It was a mentor passing the legacy to a disciplined disciple.
Shubman Gill’s Transition to No. 4 and Captaincy
Initially tried at No. 3 after Pujara’s exclusion, Shubman Gill, despite moments of brilliance, never looked quite at home in that position. With Virat Kohli’s retirement and Rohit Sharma stepping away from the red-ball captaincy, Gill has now been named India’s new Test captain and chosen to bat at No. 4, more aligned with his natural game.
Gill’s decision allows Sudharsan to slot into a role historically held by some of India’s greatest: Dravid, Pujara, and before them, even Mohinder Amarnath.
India vs England 1st Test 2025: The New Era Begins
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy’s first edition began with a clear message: Indian Test cricket is entering a new chapter. The playing XI selected by Shubman Gill included returning players and debutants alike:
India Playing XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Sai Sudharsan (Debut, Cap 317)
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper)
- Karun Nair (Comeback)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur (Comeback)
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
England Playing XI:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (Captain)
- Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Josh Tongue
- Shoaib Bashir
Fan Reactions: Twitter Flooded With Emotions
As expected, the cricketing fraternity and fans alike took to social media to express their sentiments.
“From one No.3 to another… 🫡 Pujara gives the Test cap to Sai Sudharsan. A beautiful passing of the torch moment at No.3.”
“From the monk of No. 3 to the apprentice. Pujara handing the cap to Sai Sudharsan isn’t just a gesture; it’s a handover of discipline, grit, and quiet defiance.”
The reactions reflect the reverence Indian fans have for the position. For many, it’s not just a spot in the batting order—it’s a symbol of temperament, tenacity, and trust.
LIVE Match Update: India Off to a Strong Start
As of the first hour of Day 1:
India: 44/0 (14 overs)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: Free-flowing, driving with ease
- KL Rahul: Calm, composed, finding boundaries
Key Highlights So Far:
- Rahul’s elegant cover drives reminded fans of his vintage form
- Jaiswal looked aggressive and confident
- England’s bowlers yet to create a meaningful chance
- DRS drama: A big appeal on Jaiswal was overturned due to it pitching outside leg
With both openers looking in control and Sudharsan yet to bat, fans are eager to see if the new No. 3 can anchor the innings like his predecessor.
India vs England 1st Test 2025 – Match Summary Table (Day 1, Session 1)
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | India vs England, 1st Test (Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy) |
| Date | June 20, 2025 |
| Venue | Headingley, Leeds |
| Toss | England won the toss, opted to bowl |
| India Score (14 Overs) | 44/0 |
| Openers | Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul |
| India Debutant | B. Sai Sudharsan (Test Cap No. 317) |
| Returnees | Karun Nair, Shardul Thakur |
| England Captain | Ben Stokes |
| India Captain | Shubman Gill |
Sai Sudharsan’s Test Debut Profile (Cap No. 317)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player Name | Baba Sai Sudharsan |
| State Team | Tamil Nadu |
| Role | Left-handed Top-order Batter |
| Batting Position | No. 3 (One-Down) |
| Test Cap No. | 317 |
| Debut Match | India vs England, Headingley, 2025 |
| Cap Presented By | Cheteshwar Pujara |
| Notable Traits | Compact technique, patient mindset |
Legacy at No. 3: Cheteshwar Pujara vs Sai Sudharsan (Comparison Table)
| Parameter | Cheteshwar Pujara | Sai Sudharsan (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Test Debut | 2010 vs Australia | 2025 vs England |
| Test Cap Number | 266 | 317 |
| Position | No. 3 | No. 3 |
| Playing Style | Right-handed, defensive | Left-handed, balanced |
| Avg. Before No. 3 Role | 50+ in First-Class | 60+ in First-Class |
| Pujara’s Legacy | Successor to Rahul Dravid | Successor to Pujara |
| Handed Cap By | – | Cheteshwar Pujara |
| Symbolic Significance | Wall 2.0 | Next-generation No. 3 |
Top Social Media Fan Reactions
| Reaction Theme | Description |
|---|---|
| “Passing of the Torch” | Fans loved the symbolic handover from Pujara to Sudharsan |
| “Legacy of No. 3” | Recognition of the elite role and its rich Indian cricket heritage |
| “Discipline and Grit Transfer” | Fans associate Pujara’s mindset with Sudharsan’s calmness |
| “Shubman at No. 4 Feels Right” | Captain Gill’s move to No. 4 applauded for balance |
Conclusion: A Chapter Closes, Another Begins
Indian Test cricket is in transition. The old guard—Pujara, Kohli, Rohit—has paved the way for a bold, young core: Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, and KL Rahul leading from the top.
The poetic touch of Cheteshwar Pujara handing over the cap to Sudharsan isn’t just symbolic—it underscores Indian cricket’s rich traditions, where every cap carries a legacy.
As the 1st Test unfolds, one thing is clear: the future is here, and it’s wearing cap number 317.