India A to Play England Lions in Two Four-Day Matches Ahead of Test Series; Karnataka Batter likely to be included

India’s preparation for their crucial five-match Test series against England is set to begin with two four-day matches against England Lions. Some of India’s frontline players are expected to be part of the ‘A’ squad for these matches. The matches are scheduled for May 30 and June 6, giving them valuable red-ball practice ahead of the Test series.

India A to Face England Lions in Warm-Up Matches

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that India A will take on England Lions in two four-day matches as part of their preparations for the five-Test series.

• First Match: May 30 – The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence, Canterbury
• Second Match: June 6 – County Ground, Northampton

India’s 45-day tour of England begins with the first Test at Headingley on June 20. The team will be eager to improve their red-ball performance, aiming for their first Test series win in England since 2007.

Squad Selection: Key Players in Contention

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors are expected to announce the India A squad soon. It would be possibly announced before or after the IPL 2025 knockouts, which conclude on May 25. With all top Indian cricketers currently engaged in the IPL, the selectors will have to evaluate player availability before finalizing the squad.

Karun Nair in Line for a Recall

One of the key names expected to make the India A squad is Karun Nair. The 32-year-old batter has been in exceptional form in the 2024-25 domestic season:

• Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Leading run-getter
• Ranji Trophy: Fourth highest run-scorer with 863 runs in nine matches at an average of 54, including four centuries and two fifties

His contributions were instrumental in Vidarbha’s Ranji Trophy triumph against Kerala in the final. Given his recent performances, Nair could be on the flight to England.

Senior Team Updates: Rohit to Lead, Bumrah’s Fitness in Focus

While the India A squad will prepare for the England Lions matches, the senior team is set to be led by Rohit Sharma in the Test series. However, concerns remain over Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness.

• Bumrah sustained a back injury during the Australia tour and is still recovering.
• He is likely to miss the early matches of IPL 2025 for Mumbai Indians.
• His availability for the England Test series will be closely monitored by the Indian team management.
• Final Call on Squad After IPL Knockouts

A BCCI source confirmed that the final squad announcement will depend on player availability post-IPL:

“There is enough time to announce the squad, mostly ahead of the knockouts or just after those matches. You will then get a clear picture as to which players are available by then.”

With the England tour being crucial for India’s red-ball ambitions, the A squad selection will play a key role in grooming players for the future.

Stay tuned for more updates on India’s squad announcements and player selections.

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