Vice-captain Ollie Pope retains his place at number three, meaning 21-year-old Jacob Bethell will have to wait for his opportunity despite an encouraging start to his international career across formats.
The selection signals England’s intent to back experience and stability as they prepare for a defining summer. The five-match India series precedes an Ashes tour in Australia later this year – two major challenges that could shape the tenure of captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum.
Woakes returns after missing the past two Tests with an ankle issue, while Carse is in line to make his first home Test appearance following recovery from a foot injury. The Durham seamer may be asked to share the new ball with Woakes, despite usually operating as a first-change option in first-class cricket.
“I’m relishing that opportunity, if that is what it is,” Carse told BBC Sport. “I opened the bowling during the one-day series against West Indies and felt comfortable and confident.”
Woakes, who has long been England’s go-to seam bowler in home conditions, adds depth and control to the attack. His inclusion will be especially valuable against an Indian side expected to field a strong top order.
Shoaib Bashir retains his spot as the primary spinner, with Josh Tongue completing the pace attack. Jamie Smith continues behind the stumps in the absence of the injured Ben Foakes.
Cook and Jamie Overton drop out of the squad, while Gus Atkinson is sidelined with a hamstring strain. Atkinson, who impressed in earlier appearances, is expected to be available later in the series.
Also making headlines is the potential return of Jofra Archer to red-ball cricket. The fast bowler is set to play for Sussex against Durham in the County Championship this weekend, marking a significant step in his recovery. If all goes well, Archer could come into contention for the second or third Test.
England XI for First Test vs India: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (capt), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.
