The ever-exciting Test series between England and India is back again this summer 2025, starting with the first match at iconic Headingley Cricket Ground in Leeds. These historic rivals will be going head to head starting in June, but have you ever wondered the history of England v India at Headingley Stadium?

In this blog, we will tell you all about the history of India v England Test matches at Headingley, Leeds, from interesting facts about the cricket ground to key matches between England and India.

Hospitality tickets for nail-biting England v India Test cricket are on sale now at Seat Unique, so don’t delay and secure your place now for an unforgettable summer cricket experience.

Book England v India Headingley hospitality

About Headingley Cricket Ground

Headingley Cricket Ground, situated in Headingley Stadium in Leeds, has hosted Test cricket since way back in 1899. The grounds have a capacity of 18,350 and is also home to Yorkshire County Cricket Club, making it a hub for professional cricket for many years.

Headingley has hosted many notable cricket matches, including Test series between rivals England, India, Australia, and West Indies, national and international tournaments like ODI and T20.

Key Moments in England vs. India History at Headingley

2002: India’s First Victory at Headingley

Prior to the fateful summer of 2002, England used to bank on Headingley for a surefire win. However, in the Test series between England and India, India finally won during the 3rd Test on 22nd–26th August. 

This was a big moment for the team, as it showed England they were never safe even on home turf. India won by an innings and 46 runs, with batter Rahul Dravid being the player of the match for his fantastic skills at what was the peak of his career.

2011: England’s Dominance

This series was a significant one, not just because of the quality of cricket on display but also because of the context: India were the reigning ICC World Cup champions, and England were in the midst of a golden era, coming off a historic win in the Ashes against Australia in 2010-11.

The Headingley Test was a critical part of the 2011 series, which ended in a resounding 4-0 victory for England. The Headingley result in particular highlighted England’s ability to exploit seam-friendly conditions, something that India, with their traditionally spin-friendly approach, struggled with.

2018 Test Match: England's Epic Win and Virat Kohli's Performance

India’s 2018 tour of England came with some wins and losses for both teams. Leading run-scorer Joe Root scored his 13th century in ODIs, a new record for England aas they went on to win the match against India at Headingley.

For India it wasn’t all losses though, as batter Virat Kohli became the quickest, in terms of innings, to reach 3,000 runs as captain in ODIs with 49 innings. It was an inspiring play that only added to the intense rivalry between the two countries.

Notable Players at Headingley

For the England team, there have been many players that stood out against India at Headingley. For example, Joe Root had a spectacular year in 2021 when, after a loss at Lord’s, he scored a century and brought the game back for the England side. 

On the Indian team however, Rahul Dravid stands out as an excellent man of the match at Headingley 2002, for scoring 148. It shifted the world’s view of the India cricket team, who were generally thought of as poor performers away from home.

Get England v India at Headingley tickets

England v India is always a thrilling match to watch, with years of rivalry that make the teams extra competitive. If you want to be there to experience that atmosphere at Headingley Cricket Ground, why not do it in style?

Official England v India hospitality will give you luxury perks that’ll make your matchday truly unforgettable. Get access to the exclusive Seat Unique Suite with prime seating behind the bowler, complimentary drinks, and a delicious two-course plated lunch.

Hospitality tickets for the England v India Test match at Headingley, Leeds are on sale now at Seat Unique, so don’t delay and treat yourself to an amazing day of cricket!

Book England v India Headingley hospitality