India’s much-awaited Test series in England is underway but the spotlight is already shifting beyond the five matches.
For former England spinner Graeme Swann, this high-profile contest isn’t just about beating India, it’s more about building momentum for the Ashes later this year in Australia.
The first Test, which began on June 20 at Headingley, saw the hosts win by five wickets with India entering the series under new leadership. Shubman Gill currently leads the side following the retirement of Rohit Sharma from the longest format.
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England, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after a disappointing World Test Championship cycle. But in Swann’s eyes, this series is a stage for England to fine-tune their plans ahead of a much bigger battle, the Ashes Down Under.
Let’s take a look at what Swann had to say.
Graema Swann believes India series is a warm up before Ashes Tests
Swann called the five-match Test series against India the “perfect warm-up” for England before heading to Australia for the Ashes later this year.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said playing a tough opponent like India at home is the best way to prepare for an even harder challenge away in Australia.
He pointed out that India had outplayed England during recent tours in the subcontinent, but now the conditions favour England and the home side must make it count.
“It's kind of the perfect warmup for the ashes, to be honest. India is a huge series and the last two or three times we've gone to India, we've been thoroughly outplayed. So in our own backyard, our home turf, we need to beat India. We need to play well," said Swann.
Is Indian Test team weak without Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?
With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli absent, Swann believes the visitors are not as threatening as in previous years. He acknowledged that India still has quality replacements, but their absence gives England a big advantage.
“They're not going to have Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma, their two absolute experienced superstars with the bat."
"So without that, yes, they've got great players coming in instead, but we've got bowlers who exploit our conditions well and can bowl really well," Swann added.
"The perfect warm-up for the Ashes"
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) June 17, 2025
Graeme Swann on England's Test series against India 🏴 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/woNyffMJ78
What scoreline does Graeme Swann expect from England?
The former off-spinner didn’t just want a win, but he wanted it to be convincing. Swann said he would ideally like to see a 4-1 series win, but would accept a close 3-2 if needed.
MORE: India's last Test series in England: What happened and who were the players?
“I think England must look to win this series, and I think it should look to win it convincingly as well. I'll take four-one three two at a push, but I really hope we do well and get the confidence moving into the ashes,” concluded Swann.