England's fast bowling all-rounder Chris Woakes has given his views before the highly anticipated Test series against India, now named the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy.

Though the contest will be high profile, two of the biggest names of Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, won't be available for the series. Both of them announced their retirement from the Tests in May, during IPL 2025. The decision by the veterans started a new era of Test cricket.

With Rohit Sharma out, Shubman Gill has been promoted as captain, while Rishabh Pant has been named as the vice-captain. But the lack of senior players has created a void in the Indian batting order.

Selectors have made some big moves. Sai Sudharsan, who has been in good domestic form, gets his opportunity. And in a surprise decision, Karun Nair makes a comeback to the team after 8 long years. Although, the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer shocked fans, but selectors and management cleared the air by stating that the team has been formed keeping in ming the conditionsn in England.

Woakes, who will spearhead England's pace department, was in action in a recent tour game against India 'A', where he picked up three wickets. He sent Jaiswal, Easwaran, and Nair back to the pavilion, giving everyone a reminder that he's not to be taken lightly.

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On the sidelines of the second India ‘A’-England Lions game in Northampton, Woakes told ESPNcricinfo:

“It’s always good to come up against strong opposition going into a Test series that you know is going to be hard-fought. We’ve had some good battles against Virat and Rohit over the years. For the game itself, it’s a shame they won’t be there."

Woakes added:

“But Indian cricket has so much depth, the players who will come in, I’m sure will be of a very high standard, who have proven themselves some way or the other."

India's tour starts June 20 in . With new faces and large shoes to fill, everyone is watching how the new India will face things in the absence of two giants.