India Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) made a notable announcement about India's five-Test series against England in the near future. To suit the tight schedule, BCCI has planned to send Indian players in two phases to England.
The initial group of players, including those who do not make it to the playoffs of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, will leave for England on June 6. Gautam Gambhir's support staff along with him will also be included in this group. Interestingly, the majority of Gambhir's support staff are already abroad, and he may accompany the team to England.
The rest of the players will travel to England after the end of IPL 2025 on June 3. A phased programme would assist the players in balancing their schedule and provide a seamless shift to the England tour.
The BCCI has also lined up India A to acclimatize for the tour in England. India A will play two unofficial four-day matches against England Lions on May 30 in Canterbury and June 6 in Northampton. A practice match between the senior Indian team and India A has also been arranged for June 13-16.
The England tour offers challenges as well as opportunities for the Indian cricket team. With the series being under the 2025-27 World Test Championship, the stakes are high. Yet, with an efficient plan and a skilled team, India can make a good impression and potentially create a new chapter in their cricket history.
While the BCCI finalizes the team and arrangements, their attention will be directed towards preparing the players for the grueling tour. Led by Gautam Gambhir, the team will aim to give themselves a good start and gain momentum as the series goes on.
