The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is finalising preparations for the Indian Test team’s upcoming five-match series against England, with head coach Gautam Gambhir and the first batch of players set to depart for England on June 6.
The tour, commencing on June 20, marks a significant challenge for the Indian side, especially following the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket.
The series follows India’s tough 2024-25 season, with a 0-3 loss to New Zealand and a 1-3 defeat in Australia, costing a World Test Championship 2023-25 final spot. The Test series versus England will mark the start of a new WTC cycle for India.
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Report Reveals Team India’s Travel Plans for England Test Series
According to a Times of India report, the BCCI is coordinating the travel schedule to accommodate players’ commitments to the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025).
The first batch, comprising players not involved in the IPL 2025 playoffs or those released early from their franchise commitments, will board the flight to England alongside Gambhir on June 6
Players tied to IPL 2025 playoffs, concluding on June 3, will follow later after a brief rest period.
"The players who get free from the IPL during the league stage are likely to leave with coach Gambhir on June 6. The rest will leave after a short break post the IPL 2025 commitments," a senior BCCI official said as quoted to TOI.
The BCCI aims to finalise the travel roster closer to the date, with some support staff members, currently abroad, potentially joining the squad directly in England.
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India A Squad for First Unofficial Test vs England Lions to Leave on May 25
The India A squad, scheduled to face England Lions in two unofficial Tests with the first match slated for May 30, is likely to depart for England in batches.
Players not engaged in IPL 2025 or its playoffs will travel with the first batch on May 25, while those involved in later IPL stages will join the squad subsequently for the second match. This early departure allows the A team to acclimatise and gain match practice in English conditions, supporting Gambhir’s strategy to identify "wild card” talents for the senior side.
The India A squad announcement, initially expected earlier this week, has been delayed due to the revised IPL 2025 schedule, compelling the men’s senior selection committee, chaired by Ajit Agarkar, to adjust plans.
Also read: Shoaib Malik Quits His Post As PCB Mentor Citing "Other Commitments”
