In a strategic move before India’s pivotal tour of England in June, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken the decision to name some major Test players in the India A team. These players will take on England Lions in two four-day games in preparation for the eagerly awaited five-match Test series against England.
India A Tour Games To Start In May
India A side will play two tour games on May 30 as a preparation for the senior team’s tournament, which kicks off on June 20 in Headingley. The tour games will act as an essential warm-up session before India heads into their 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle.
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IPL Commitments May Present A Challenge For Players
As per a PTI report, India’s core Test players will be added in the ‘A’ team for these practice matches. This would put Indian players in a dilemma if they are already playing IPL 2025 because the playoff matches have been scheduled on May 20, 21, and 23 and the final on May 25. Players chosen for the India A tour will have to coordinate a tight turnaround between the formats.
Karun Nair In The Limelight
One of the likely picks for India A side is experienced batter Karun Nair, who has been sensational throughout the domestic campaign. He was the top run-scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and fourth in the Ranji Trophy run charts with 863 runs from nine matches at a rich average of 54. His incredible campaign that comprised four hundreds and two fifties has put him in the running for a place in the red-ball unit.
With the BCCI prioritizing red-ball readiness ahead of the England series, these pre-tour games will be crucial for players vying for spots in the senior squad.
