India A to Tour England – Full Overview
India A is scheduled to embark on a month-long tour of England starting May 25, 2025. The tour is designed to help young and fringe players gain experience in English conditions ahead of the Indian senior team’s high-stakes five-match Test series against England, which begins in late June.
🗓️ Match Schedule
India A will play three four-day unofficial Tests against the England Lions. The tentative dates for the matches are:
- 1st Test: May 30 – June 2
- 2nd Test: June 6 – June 9
- 3rd Test: June 13 – June 16
These matches will take place at county grounds in England, with venues selected to replicate conditions expected during the main Test series.
🎯 Purpose of the Tour
The tour serves multiple objectives:
- Preparation for senior players: Some fringe members of the main Test squad may be included to acclimatize to English conditions.
- Talent development: Provides exposure to promising domestic performers like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rajat Patidar, and Mukesh Kumar.
- Bench strength assessment: Helps the BCCI selectors evaluate potential backups for the Test squad.
🧑🏫 Coaching and Support Staff
India A will be coached by a senior member of the NCA (National Cricket Academy) team, likely in coordination with head coach Rahul Dravid’s inputs. Bowling and batting specialists will also accompany the squad.
🌧️ Weather and Challenges
English early summer can bring unpredictable weather and seaming conditions, offering a good test of temperament and technique. For many players, it will be their first experience with the Dukes ball, which swings more than the Kookaburra used in India.
