India bring in special net bowler from IPL team to get ready for Edgbaston Test - WATCH

As Team India gear up for the second Test against England at Edgbaston, an unexpected face caught attention during their practice session in Birmingham. Punjab Kings’ left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar was seen bowling in the nets on Day 2 of the practice session.

Harpreet Brar joins Team India as net bowler

Harpreet Brar is not part of India’s official Test squad for the England series. However, he has joined the team as a net bowler to help India prepare for the second Test against England. The 29-year-old was also spotted in a different training outfit, which made it clear he wasn’t officially included in the squad.

Harpreet Brar recently impressed in IPL 2025, where he and his team reached the final. He has played 49 matches in the IPL overall and has picked up 35 wickets. While Brar is yet to make his international debut, his presence in the Indian squad, even as a net bowler, is a positive sign.

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India are currently 1-0 down in the five-match series and are looking at ways to make a comeback in the contest. Brar will likely help India prepare for England’s left-arm spin threat as the Birmingham match is expected to be played on a spin-friendly track. Kuldeep Yadav is anticipated to come into the playing XI for India.

Meanwhile, India lost the first Test despite scoring five centuries, a first in cricket history. Indian bowlers failed to defend a 371-run target in the final innings, while fielders dropped several crucial catches that eventually cost the game. Shubman Gill’s captaincy was also below expectations, as India failed to capitalise on strong positions on each day of the match.

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India have not won a Test series in England since 2007 and will be eager to make a statement this time around with new head coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Shubman Gill at the helm. The series is also important because it marks the beginning of a new cycle of the World Test Championship for India, and a positive start will help.