Picking a World Test XI, whether from the current generation or across different eras, is never an easy exercise. With several world-class cricketers competing for a place in the side, every selection comes with its share of debate. The challenge becomes even greater when the focus is on active players, given the number of outstanding performers across different teams.
In a recent discussion, former India opener revealed his choices for the current World Test XI. Interestingly, the former cricketer included five Indian players in his preferred combination, highlighting the country’s strong presence in the longest format. His selection also features some of the biggest names from Australia, England, South Africa and other leading Test-playing nations.
Former opener picks his current World Test XI
Speaking in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, Aakash Chopra shared his preferred combination, selecting a balanced side with considerable batting depth, multiple all-rounders and an imposing bowling attack..
Star opening pair
Chopra went with KL Rahul and Travis Head to open the innings. Rahul brings experience and the ability to construct long innings in challenging conditions, while Head offers an aggressive approach that can put opposition bowlers under immediate pressure. The combination provides two contrasting styles, giving the team flexibility depending on the match situation and conditions.
Solid middle order
Joe Root, Shubman Gill and Harry Brook occupy the next three positions. Root’s consistency and experience make him a dependable presence, while Gill adds technical quality and the ability to bat for extended periods. Brook, meanwhile, brings an attacking dimension to the middle order. His ability to score quickly against quality bowling makes him an exciting option in the No. 5 position.
Rishabh Pant has been selected as the wicketkeeper-batter at No. 6. Apart from his responsibilities behind the stumps, his counterattacking approach and match-winning potential make him a valuable addition to the side.
Dynamic all-rounders
Ravindra Jadeja and Marco Jansen are the two all-rounders in Chopra’s preferred XI. Jadeja offers exceptional control with his left-arm spin, along with valuable contributions with the bat. Jansen provides a different dimension with his left-arm pace and ability to contribute lower down the order. His presence also gives the team another genuine fast-bowling option.
Splendid bowling attack
Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Jasprit Bumrah form a formidable pace combination. Cummins brings leadership and consistency, Starc offers express pace and left-arm variety, while Bumrah’s accuracy and ability to generate movement make him a major threat across conditions.
South African icon named as 12th player
Interestingly, Chopra named South African captain Temba Bavuma as his 12th player. Despite leading South Africa to the World Test Championship (WTC) title last season, Bavuma was overlooked for a place in the former India opener’s preferred playing XI. The South African skipper had to settle for the additional-player spot, with Chopra opting for five Indian cricketers in his main combination.
Aakash Chopra’s current World Test XI: KL Rahul (Opening Batsman), Travis Head (Opening Batsman), Joe Root (Batsman), Shubman Gill (Batsman), Harry Brook (Batsman), Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper-Batsman), Ravindra Jadeja (All-Rounder), Marco Jansen (All-Rounder), Pat Cummins (Fast Bowler), Mitchell Starc (Fast Bowler), Jasprit Bumrah (Fast Bowler)
12th player: Temba Bavuma
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