BCCI plans red-ball training during IPL to prepare for England test series

In anticipation of the upcoming five-match Test series against England, scheduled to commence on June 20, 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is formulating a strategy to ensure Indian players remain prepared for red-ball cricket during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The IPL 2025 is slated to run from March 22 to May 25, leaving a narrow window for Test match preparation.

Recognizing the challenges of transitioning from the T20 format of the IPL to the rigors of Test cricket, the BCCI plans to integrate red-ball practice sessions into the players’ schedules during the IPL. This initiative aims to keep Test-specialist players engaged with the longer format, ensuring they are match-ready for the England series.

Preliminary discussions regarding this plan took place in Dubai, coinciding with India’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Key members of the Indian team management and BCCI officials convened to outline the roadmap, with further meetings scheduled post the Champions Trophy’s conclusion on March 9.

Traditionally, the BCCI has allowed players to focus exclusively on their respective IPL franchises during the tournament. However, recent Test series losses, including a 3-0 defeat to New Zealand at home and a 3-1 loss in Australia, have prompted a reassessment of this approach. The BCCI is keen to address the trend of underperformance in Test cricket following the IPL season.

While specific details of the red-ball practice regimen during the IPL remain confidential, the overarching goal is clear: to ensure that India’s premier Test cricketers are adequately prepared for the challenges of the England tour, thereby enhancing the team’s prospects in the World Test Championship cycle.