Team India’s arrival in the UK ahead of the five-Test series against England didn’t quite generate the usual buzz. In a rare sight, there were no fans outside the airport to greet the players - something almost unthinkable for an Indian touring side.
And the reason seems as obvious as it is telling: neither Virat Kohli nor Rohit Sharma was on that flight. Led by Shubman Gill and guided by head coach Gautam Gambhir, the squad landed in the UK on Thursday.
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The BCCI shared the official "Touchdown UK" clip on social media and fans online were quick to notice the deafening silence that followed. There were no chants, no flags and no airport selfies - just a quiet arrival for a team entering a new era.
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Team India lands in UK to empty airport
It’s not unusual for Indian fans abroad to turn up in droves to welcome their team. But with Rohit and Kohli both missing from this series - the usual crowd excitement simply didn’t show up.
Touchdown UK 🛬#TeamIndia have arrived for the five-match Test series against England 🙌#ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/QK5MMk9Liw
— BCCI (@BCCI) June 7, 2025
The void left by the duo is being felt even before a ball has been bowled. Their absence is not just about experience or skill - it’s about charisma that draws fans in.
What's ahead for India in the England series?
The Test series begins on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. With the World Test Championship cycle kicking off - both teams will be eager to make a strong start.
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For India, this marks the beginning of a transition - fresh faces, new leadership and big expectations. Several youngsters like Sai Sudharsan, Arshdeep Singh and Abhimanyu Easwaran may get their first shot in whites.
But for now, it’s all eyes on Gill - who has got the job of leading a team that's missing its two biggest names.