Image: India A to tour England for unofficial Tests as seniors eye match practice / © NDTV Sports
When the final of IPL 2025 kicks off on May 25, several India A players will be departing the country the same day for a tour of England. Although the squad has not yet been officially announced, the BCCI has already begun logistical preparations, including collecting passports and jersey sizes from a pool of selected players. The India A team is scheduled to face the England Lions in three unofficial Tests starting May 30 in Canterbury. Meanwhile, the senior Indian team is set to play a five-match Test series against England beginning June 20.
Only those not involved in the IPL knockouts will leave early, with the rest expected to travel in early June, possibly in batches. Some senior players have expressed interest in participating in at least one unofficial Test to better prepare for the main series.
However, their involvement depends on their IPL commitments and fitness clearance. Last year, a similar phased departure was arranged for the Australia tour. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has already shortlisted players, and the BCCI is cautious about player workload and injuries, considering the long Test series ahead. The movement reflects a balancing act between IPL and national duty during a tight international schedule.