Best Combined XI from ENG vs IND Test series

The five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy concluded after an exciting 25-day contest, with all five Tests producing results only on the final day of play. At one stage, England led the series 2-1 after the third Test, but India bounced back to win the fifth, ending the series in a 2-2 draw. As a result, both teams shared the trophy.

The series showcased exceptional talent and determination from players on both sides. Several individual performances stood out, and here is a look at the best combined playing combination from the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy’s first season.

Top-Order: Ben Duckett, KL Rahul, Joe Root

Ben Duckett opened the innings with his trademark attacking flair, consistently putting Indian bowlers under pressure. He scored 462 runs in 10 innings at an average of 51.33, including one century and three half-centuries. His only century came in the first Test at the Headingley in Leeds, as the English side chased down a mammoth target in the fourth innings. Duckett was awarded Player of the Match for this performance.

Partnering him at the top is KL Rahul, who was the third-highest run-scorer in the series. His contributions came on tough pitches and in challenging conditions. He scored 532 runs at an average of 53.20, including two centuries and two fifties, and played a pivotal role in ensuring India remained competitive throughout. This was also the first time Rahul aggregated 500-plus runs in a red-ball series.

At No. 3 is the ever-reliable Joe Root, who once again proved his class. The former England captain scored 537 runs at an average of 67.12, with three centuries and one fifty. Each of his tons either brought England close to victory or rescued them from difficult positions. Having Duckett, Rahul, and Root in the top three would make a formidable batting against any line-up.