Team India, led by Rohit Sharma, made a strategic choice in the first Test against England, opting for Axar Patel over Kuldeep Yadav. Announcing the playing XI, Rohit explained that the decision was challenging, but Axar's all-around skills and recent batting success influenced the call. The Indian skipper highlighted Axar's proficiency in home conditions and his ability to provide batting depth. Former spinner Anil Kumble echoed the sentiment, suggesting that the absence of Virat Kohli heightened concerns about the batting order's strength in the opening Test. Kohli opted out of the first two Tests due to personal reasons.

As the match commenced in Hyderabad, Team India's selection strategy became a focal point, with fans and experts analyzing the decision to field three spinners and a lone pacer against England's lineup.