England fast bowler Brydon Carse says India will still be a tough side to beat in the upcoming five-match Test series, even though big names like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have retired. Speaking in Leeds before the first Test at Headingley on June 20, Carse admitted that their absence is a big blow but believes India’s young players are more than ready to step up.

“Virat and Sharma have been world-class batters for many years. Of course, it’s a big loss for India,” Carse said. “But they’ve got a lot of talent coming through. I’m sure they’ll still put out a very strong team. We’re ready for the challenge.”

India, now captained by Shubman Gill, are going through a change, but Carse warned that their inexperience doesn’t make them any less dangerous. He also spoke about how England’s bowlers plan to attack the new-look Indian batting line-up. “No matter how good a batter is, the early part of the innings is always tricky. We’ll stick to our plans and try to get them out early,” he said.

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With senior bowlers like James Anderson retired and both Jofra Archer and Mark Wood out injured, Carse is expected to play a bigger role. He missed the Champions Trophy due to injury but is now fully fit and eager to make an impact even if it means taking the new ball.

“If I’m asked to take the new ball, I’d love to. It’s a big opportunity,” he said. “We’ve got a huge few months coming up first India, then the Ashes. These are the kind of games every cricketer dreams of playing.” Carse has already picked up 27 wickets in five away Tests and is now looking forward to playing his first Test at home and making it count against one of the best teams in the world.