The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing a comprehensive strategy for the Indian players to keep them match ready for the all-important Test series against England despite the rigorous schedule of the upcoming IPL 2025, as per a report by Cricbuzz.
BCCI to devise masterplan to keep Indian players match ready for England Test series
It has been learnt that the two-month IPL period will not be solely focused on white-ball cricket. Players are expected to incorporate red-ball activities into their training and match preparation. All this will be done to ensure Indian players tackle the challenges of transitioning between formats and ensure players are adequately prepared for the rigors of Test cricket in English conditions
Notably India will play a five-match Test series against England which is scheduled for June and July, immediately following the conclusion of the IPL 2025, which will get underway from March 22.
Reports suggest that the BCCI is planning to implement specific measures to address recent underperformance in Test cricket. These measures will involve requesting Test players to participate in dedicated red-ball practice sessions. Moreover, BCCI is considering engaging players in unconventional training activities, tailored to targeted players. The BCCI's proactive approach reflects a desire to significantly improve the team's Test match results.
The IPL 2025 is slated to commence on March 22, culminating in the final match on May 25. Immediately following the conclusion of the IPL, Indian cricketers will embark on a journey to England to participate in a highly anticipated five-match Test series. This series, scheduled to begin at Headingley on June 20, will also signify the commencement of the new World Test Championship cycle.
While the BCCI is still in the process of finalising its comprehensive plan, preliminary meetings have already taken place to address the challenges of overlapping schedules. These discussions, involving top BCCI officials and the Indian team management, have focused on developing a system that effectively balances IPL commitments with the demands of Test cricket.
As per reports, following the India versus Pakistan match, the decision-makers convened to further explore potential strategies. The next crucial meeting is scheduled to occur after the conclusion of the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy, which is set to end on March 9. This timeline indicates the BCCI's commitment to gathering all necessary information before solidifying its plan.
India's historical performances in Test series held in England immediately following the IPL have been consistently disappointing. The team suffered a 4-0 whitewash in 2011, a 3-1 series loss in 2014, and a 4-1 defeat in 2018. This recurring pattern of losses has prompted the BCCI to adopt a more proactive approach, with the goal of securing a long-awaited series victory in England.
The most recent Test series in England, under Virat Kohli's captaincy, presented a contrasting narrative. India held a 2-1 series lead before the interruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. When the final match was played the following year, England secured a victory, resulting in a 2-2 series draw. However, recent Test match defeats have heightened the BCCI's concerns, leading to the decision to implement a more flexible training regime for players during IPL 2025. The Indian team's recent struggles include a 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand at home and a 3-1 series loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
