India have lost their last three series to England, so revenge will be on the minds of the home team when the first Test match comes into play from Wednesday in Rajkot. The overwhelming favourites they might be, but Virat Kohli's men will know only the best will do if they are to come out on top in this opening Test match and eventually the series.
Since Kohli has taken over as captain, India have been outstanding in the Test match format, winning their last four series. Some of them have come against strong opposition too, and with India trumping South Africa and New Zealand in their last two rubbers at home, it is understandable why they are being considered the favourites against England.
Get the Rajkot Test, Day 1 score HERE, Day 2 score HERE, Day 3 score HERE, Day 4 score HERE
"We are coming as massive underdogs, there's no doubt about that," England fast bowler Stuart Broad, who will play his 100th Test if selected for the first match, said. "Obviously, India has got to No.1 in the world and played some brilliant cricket here, so we're very aware that it's a huge challenge.
"But it's pretty exciting as well, we're not really sure what to expect."
Read about India's (not quite) brilliant slip fielding
What England can expect is some outstanding spin bowling. The reason behind India's success has been the spinners, particularly R Ashwin, who has been the leading wicket-taker in those victories. Ravindra Jadeja is another who has bowled quite well, so it is that particular challenge that England will need to overcome to stand a chance of winning this first Test match.
While the bowling looks settled, there are still a few question marks over India's batting. Gautam Gambhir will be playing only the second Test of a long-awaited comeback, while there are question marks over who can fill in at No.6.
If the England bowlers, be that the spinners or the pacers, stick to their plans, keep the runs dried up and keep that pressure on the batsmen, there is a chance of a batting collapse. But then, there is also a chance two of the batsmen will put on a big partnership, like it happens so often in India, and bat England out of the game. So, staying as consistent as possible will be the key.
"Playing against England will be a challenge," India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said. "They have a decent side – their bating line-up is pretty experienced.
"Yes their spinners are new. Their bowling attack is comparatively inexperienced. But I always believe you have to give respect to all opponents whether their bowling attack is new or experienced. For us it's important to focus on our strengths and we will be playing to our strengths and potential. I am sure it will be a good series."
The first Test will be a good pointer on what to expect from the rest of the series – hopefully the first Test gives us plenty of outstanding batting, great bowling and brilliant catches.
Where to Watch Live
India vs England first Test match is set to begin at 9.30am IST (4am BST, 11pm ET previous day). Live Streaming and TV information is below.
India: TV: Star Sports 1, HD1 and Star Sports 3, HD3. Live Streaming: Hotstar.
UK: TV: Sky Sports 2. Live Streaming: Watch Sky Sports.
US and Canada: TV: Willow TV. Live Streaming: Willow TV Online.
New Zealand: TV: Sky Sport 2. Live Streaming: Sky Go NZ.
Middle East: TV: OSN Cricket. Live Streaming: OSN Cricket Live.
Australia: TV: Fox Sports 2. Live Streaming: Foxtel.
