England head coach Brendon McCullum believes India have arrived in England with firm belief and resolve for the upcoming five-match Test series. However, McCullum has underscored England’s readiness to face the challenge from India. The five-match Test series between India and England, which will begin on June 20, will also mark the beginning of the World Test Championship cycle. Meanwhile, the Indian side will be without the experienced duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom retired from the longest format last month. India will be led by new captain Shubman Gill, with Rishabh Pant serving as his deputy. 

“They’re an outstanding cricketing nation, who will come here with high hopes, and we are looking forward to seeing them. It’s important the guys refresh. We know where we want to get to as a Test team,” McCullum said as quoted by Sky Sports Cricket. 

England, meanwhile, will be without their premier bowler Mark Wood, who has been ruled out of the first three games. While fellow pacers Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson are set to miss the first game. 

“There are some quality bowlers that are unavailable, but we have a nice, varied bowling attack with Chris Woakes, Sam Cook, Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue for the high-pace element. We have Shoaib Bashir, who is growing in Test cricket every day. We know we are going to be tested against India, and they will arrive prepared,” McCullum said. 

McCullum also praised young star Jacob Bethell, who has been included in the England squad. 

“Bethell has a good life in front of him. For a 21-year-old, he’s got a real poise, and that allows him to go out there and be present and show off his flair and talent,” McCullum said.

“The world is his oyster. He’s already becoming a leader in the dressing room which is what you want,” he added.

“Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett have reminded me of Duckett and Zak Crawley in the Test game. We know how good Duckett is, but the power that Smith possesses is amazing."

“These guys are fearless, and if you add the craft, then you hope you end up with a rounded player.”