England captain Harry Brook has made it clear that climbing to the top of the ICC men’s T20I rankings is his team’s next big target after wrapping up the series against India. Following England’s dominant performances, Brook said securing the No. 1 ranking has become the side’s biggest motivation. A convincing nine-wicket win in the fourth T20I at Bristol handed England an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Victory in the final game at Southampton would see England overtake India and become the world’s top-ranked men’s T20I side.&nbsp;"We've been told if we win the next game, we go to world No.1 and that's definitely a prize that we're eyeing up," Brook said after the Bristol win.&nbsp;“India are a strong side. They probably haven’t been as good as they have been over the last couple of years, but we’re really happy with the way that we’ve executed our plans.”&nbsp;“To beat India 4-0 would be a pretty special series win. To go No.1 in the world would be even better. That's our main aim. We want to go out there and try and beat them convincingly again.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-eng-w-shree-charani-earns-maiden-test-cap-at-lord-s-after-t20-world-cup-heroics-1783685232380">IND-W vs ENG-W: Shree Charani earns maiden Test cap at Lord's after T20 World Cup heroics</a>&nbsp;Brook attributed England’s success in the series to their ability to read conditions and adjust their game accordingly, something he feels has been a key advantage against the reigning T20 world champions.&nbsp;"We've got to go to Southampton, try and assess the conditions as well as we can, and that's something that we've done really well in this series so far," he said.&nbsp;The Southampton encounter will also take place on the same day as England’s FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway and Brook admitted the squad would be following the football action closely.&nbsp;“To go world No.1 and England going to the semis, that would be pretty cool,” he said. “We’ll definitely be keeping a close eye on it and watching the game for sure.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-why-was-mbappe-substituted-vs-morocco-france-captain-shares-injury-details-1783662963630">FIFA | Why was Mbappe substituted vs Morocco? France captain gives injury update</a>&nbsp;England’s rise under Brook has been impressive. Since assuming the captaincy, the team has won 19 of its last 22 completed T20Is and also reached the semi-finals of this year’s T20 World Cup, where their campaign ended with a defeat to India.&nbsp;However, Brook believes the team’s progress has been building over time rather than happening overnight.&nbsp;“The white-ball side’s been on a really good path, if I’m being brutally honest,” he said. “We’ve been playing extremely good cricket. We’ve been adapting to the surfaces and conditions really well.&nbsp;“We had a good World Cup. We just fell just short of 250 in a chase at the Wankhede, which is incredible.”&nbsp;Despite already sealing the series, Brook stressed that England’s focus remains firmly on ending it with another victory.&nbsp;"I think it might have changed the mood a little bit, but we've still got one more game to play. Hopefully, we can go to world No. 1 and beat a very strong Indian side."

A win for England in the final T20I in Southampton on Saturday would see them replace India at the top of the ICC rankings.

England captain Harry Brook has made it clear that climbing to the top of the ICC men’s T20I rankings is his team’s next big target after wrapping up the series against India. Following England’s dominant performances, Brook said securing the No. 1 ranking has become the side’s biggest motivation. A convincing nine-wicket win in the fourth T20I at Bristol handed England an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Victory in the final game at Southampton would see England overtake India and become the world’s top-ranked men’s T20I side. "We've been told if we win the next game, we go to world No.1 and that's definitely a prize that we're eyeing up," Brook said after the Bristol win. “India are a strong side. They probably haven’t been as good as they have been over the last couple of years, but we’re really happy with the way that we’ve executed our plans.” “To beat India 4-0 would be a pretty special series win. To go No.1 in the world would be even better. That's our main aim. We want to go out there and try and beat them convincingly again.” Also Read - IND-W vs ENG-W: Shree Charani earns maiden Test cap at Lord's after T20 World Cup heroics Brook attributed England’s success in the series to their ability to read conditions and adjust their game accordingly, something he feels has been a key advantage against the reigning T20 world champions. "We've got to go to Southampton, try and assess the conditions as well as we can, and that's something that we've done really well in this series so far," he said. The Southampton encounter will also take place on the same day as England’s FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway and Brook admitted the squad would be following the football action closely. “To go world No.1 and England going to the semis, that would be pretty cool,” he said. “We’ll definitely be keeping a close eye on it and watching the game for sure.” Also Read - FIFA | Why was Mbappe substituted vs Morocco? France captain gives injury update England’s rise under Brook has been impressive. Since assuming the captaincy, the team has won 19 of its last 22 completed T20Is and also reached the semi-finals of this year’s T20 World Cup, where their campaign ended with a defeat to India. However, Brook believes the team’s progress has been building over time rather than happening overnight. “The white-ball side’s been on a really good path, if I’m being brutally honest,” he said. “We’ve been playing extremely good cricket. We’ve been adapting to the surfaces and conditions really well. “We had a good World Cup. We just fell just short of 250 in a chase at the Wankhede, which is incredible.” Despite already sealing the series, Brook stressed that England’s focus remains firmly on ending it with another victory. "I think it might have changed the mood a little bit, but we've still got one more game to play. Hopefully, we can go to world No. 1 and beat a very strong Indian side."

A win for England in the final T20I in Southampton on Saturday would see them replace India at the top of the ICC rankings.

ENG vs IND: Harry Brook eyes No. 1 T20I ranking after England clinch series against India

England skipper Ben Stokes won the toss in fourth Test against India at Old Trafford in Manchester and decided to bowl first on Wednesday (Jul 23). The decision taken by Stokes is against what any team has done before - winning the toss, bowling first and then win a Test in Manchester. No team has been able to do so in the history of Test cricket including host England. On the other hand, only thrice it has happened the side batting first after losing the toss went on to win a Test in Manchester - England twice (both in 2020) and Australia once that too back in 1993.<h2>Ben Stokes win toss and England bowl first in Manchester - will they lose?</h2>As history suggests, no team has won a Test in Manchester after winning the toss and electing to bowl first. As for India, they have never won a Test at this venue but that was the same for Edgbaston - venue of the second Test - India won the match and that too without Bumrah in the ongoing series.Overall, only four teams apart from England have managed to win a Test at Old Trafford in England and none of the teams, apart from the hosts, have double digits wins to their name.<h2>Here's the list of teams with most Test wins in Manchester</h2><ul><li>England - 33 wins in 85 Tests</li><li>Australia - 9 wins in 32 Tests</li><li>West Indies - 5 wins in 17 Tests</li><li>Pakistan - 1 win in 7 Tests</li><li>South Africa - 1 win in 11 Tests</li><li>India - 0 win 10 Tests</li></ul><h2>India drop Karun Nair, hand debut to Anshul Kamboj</h2>India made three changes in the playing XI owing to multiple injuries to pace bowlers and all-rounder Nitish Reddy who is out of the remainder of the series altogether. Karun Nair, who has not been able to score a single fifty in six innings, lost his place to Sai Sudharsan. Shardul Thakur, who played the first Test, comes back in for Nitish Reddy and Anshul Kamboj made his debut and repalced injured Akash Deep.India playing XI vs England in 4th Test: Jaiswal, Rahul, Sudharsan, Gill (c), Pant (wk), Jadeja, Sundar, Shardul, Bumrah, Siraj, Kamboj

As history suggests, no team has won a Test in Manchester after winning the toss and electing to bowl first. As for India, they have never won a Test at this venue but that was the same for Edgbaston - venue of the second Test - and India won the match.

England skipper Ben Stokes won the toss in fourth Test against India at Old Trafford in Manchester and decided to bowl first on Wednesday (Jul 23). The decision taken by Stokes is against what any team has done before - winning the toss, bowling first and then win a Test in Manchester. No team has been able to do so in the history of Test cricket including host England. On the other hand, only thrice it has happened the side batting first after losing the toss went on to win a Test in Manchester - England twice (both in 2020) and Australia once that too back in 1993. Ben Stokes win toss and England bowl first in Manchester - will they lose? As history suggests, no team has won a Test in Manchester after winning the toss and electing to bowl first. As for India, they have never won a Test at this venue but that was the same for Edgbaston - venue of the second Test - India won the match and that too without Bumrah in the ongoing series. Overall, only four teams apart from England have managed to win a Test at Old Trafford in England and none of the teams, apart from the hosts, have double digits wins to their name. Here's the list of teams with most Test wins in Manchester England - 33 wins in 85 Tests Australia - 9 wins in 32 Tests West Indies - 5 wins in 17 Tests Pakistan - 1 win in 7 Tests South Africa - 1 win in 11 Tests India - 0 win 10 Tests India drop Karun Nair, hand debut to Anshul Kamboj India made three changes in the playing XI owing to multiple injuries to pace bowlers and all-rounder Nitish Reddy who is out of the remainder of the series altogether. Karun Nair, who has not been able to score a single fifty in six innings, lost his place to Sai Sudharsan. Shardul Thakur, who played the first Test, comes back in for Nitish Reddy and Anshul Kamboj made his debut and repalced injured Akash Deep. India playing XI vs England in 4th Test: Jaiswal, Rahul, Sudharsan, Gill (c), Pant (wk), Jadeja, Sundar, Shardul, Bumrah, Siraj, Kamboj

As history suggests, no team has won a Test in Manchester after winning the toss and electing to bowl first. As for India, they have never won a Test at this venue but that was the same for Edgbaston - venue of the second Test - and India won the match.

ENG vs IND: Ben Stokes wins toss and elects to bowl in Manchester - Will England lose Test? History suggests...

Team India is all set for a new era in Test cricket as Shubman Gill-led side arrived in England for the five-match Test series on Saturday (June 7). Now in the post-Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli era, the Indian team will have a new set of challenges as they look to start on a winning note under new skipper Gill. However, it was Rohit who was fondly missed as the Indian team arrived in England with vice-captain Rishabh Pant giving a teaser.&nbsp;<h2>Pant misses Rohit on England tour</h2>As soon as the Indian team landed in England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) posted a video on its social handle. In the video, Rishabh was reminded of Rohit, who is no longer part of the Indian team having announced his Test retirement. Hilariously he said, “Garden ki toh yaad aayegi" translating to “we will remember the garden”.&nbsp;The comment related to Rohit’s famous on-field chat during England’s India tour in early 2024 when he said “no one will roam in the garden”.&nbsp;However, those conversations are now part of the past as Rohit recently announced his retirement from Test cricket. His retirement came at a surprising time in May despite him underlining his Test career is not over yet while in Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is Gill who will now lead the Indian team in the England series as they begin the next chapter in the World Test Championship (WTC). India missed out on a third consecutive final in 2025 but will be determined to start on a positive note in the 2025-27 cycle.<h2>India tour of England 2025</h2>1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

Team India is all set for a new era in Test cricket as Shubman Gill-led side arrived in England for the five-match Test series on Saturday (June 7). 

Team India is all set for a new era in Test cricket as Shubman Gill-led side arrived in England for the five-match Test series on Saturday (June 7). Now in the post-Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli era, the Indian team will have a new set of challenges as they look to start on a winning note under new skipper Gill. However, it was Rohit who was fondly missed as the Indian team arrived in England with vice-captain Rishabh Pant giving a teaser. Pant misses Rohit on England tour As soon as the Indian team landed in England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) posted a video on its social handle. In the video, Rishabh was reminded of Rohit, who is no longer part of the Indian team having announced his Test retirement. Hilariously he said, “Garden ki toh yaad aayegi" translating to “we will remember the garden”. The comment related to Rohit’s famous on-field chat during England’s India tour in early 2024 when he said “no one will roam in the garden”. However, those conversations are now part of the past as Rohit recently announced his retirement from Test cricket. His retirement came at a surprising time in May despite him underlining his Test career is not over yet while in Australia. It is Gill who will now lead the Indian team in the England series as they begin the next chapter in the World Test Championship (WTC). India missed out on a third consecutive final in 2025 but will be determined to start on a positive note in the 2025-27 cycle. India tour of England 2025 1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds 2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham 3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London 4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester 5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

Team India is all set for a new era in Test cricket as Shubman Gill-led side arrived in England for the five-match Test series on Saturday (June 7).&nbsp;

ENG vs IND, Test Series: Rishabh Pant misses Rohit Sharma's company on England tour, reminds of 'garden ki...'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> will lead India in England Tests later this year. After guiding India to its third <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy</a> title in Dubai, Rohit will continue as the Test captain for the five-match Test series against England from June to August. Amid retirement rumours, which he squashed shortly after lifting his second ICC title in two years, Rohit will retain his place in the Test side.
Rohit had a horrid run in the lead-up to the first showpiece event of the year, failing massively as a player and captain in two back-to-back Test series (against New Zealand at home and Australia Down Under). Under his leadership, India got whitewashed at home for the first time in history, with Australia reclaiming the BGT a decade later.
His performance was as timid as his chances of playing for India again since January this year - so much so that Rohit had to sit out of the final Test against the Oz in Sydney, which India lost within three days, conceding the away BGT for the first time in ten years and a chance to qualify for its third straight WTC Final.
He, however, transformed his batting before the eight-team tournament got underway, and even though he failed to convert his starts in all matches leading up to the final, he scored a match-winning 76 against New Zealand in the summit clash, helping India beat the Kiwis by four wickets and win the title.
Although reports before the grand final suggested a different story, after Rohit guided India home, it changed to an extent where Rohit got the BCCI and the selectors&rsquo; backing to lead India in another major tournament - the England Tests.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-has-no-reason-to-retire-ab-de-villiers-throws-weight-behind-indias-almost-most-successful-captain-8849565" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;He has no reason to retire,&rsquo; de Villiers throws weight behind Rohit, India&rsquo;s almost &lsquo;most successful captain&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;He has shown what he can do. Every stakeholder feels that he is the right candidate to lead the Indian side for the tour of England. Rohit too has expressed his eagerness to keep playing red-ball cricket,&rdquo; a source close to the information said in a chat with the Indian Express.
<h2>Retirement rumours &ndash; all up in the air</h2>
Several reports of Rohit contemplating announcing his international retirement after the Champions Trophy final kept the fans on their toes; the Indian skipper smashed them out of the park the way he did it to the Kiwi bowlers in the final in Dubai.&nbsp;
Although he remained committed to delivering for Indian cricket across formats, he kept mum about his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/it-is-too-far-india-skipper-rohit-sharma-opens-up-on-playing-2027-odi-world-cup-8846074" rel="dofollow">chances of featuring in the next ODI World Cup</a> a couple of years later.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Right now, I&rsquo;m playing really well, and I&rsquo;m enjoying everything I&rsquo;m doing with this team and the team is enjoying my company as well, which is nice. I can&rsquo;t really say 2027 because it&rsquo;s too far, but I&rsquo;m keeping all my options open,&rdquo; Rohit said in a post-match presser.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s something that really makes me happy. There are a lot of things involved, there&rsquo;s so much pride and the way this team is playing, I don&rsquo;t want to leave this team. The way we are playing at this point in time, there is so much joy, so much fun to play with all of them,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Under Rohit Sharma's leadership, India lost the home Test series to New Zealand before conceding the away BGT for the first time in a decade.

Rohit Sharma will lead India in England Tests later this year. After guiding India to its third ICC Champions Trophy title in Dubai, Rohit will continue as the Test captain for the five-match Test series against England from June to August. Amid retirement rumours, which he squashed shortly after lifting his second ICC title in two years, Rohit will retain his place in the Test side. Rohit had a horrid run in the lead-up to the first showpiece event of the year, failing massively as a player and captain in two back-to-back Test series (against New Zealand at home and Australia Down Under). Under his leadership, India got whitewashed at home for the first time in history, with Australia reclaiming the BGT a decade later. His performance was as timid as his chances of playing for India again since January this year - so much so that Rohit had to sit out of the final Test against the Oz in Sydney, which India lost within three days, conceding the away BGT for the first time in ten years and a chance to qualify for its third straight WTC Final. He, however, transformed his batting before the eight-team tournament got underway, and even though he failed to convert his starts in all matches leading up to the final, he scored a match-winning 76 against New Zealand in the summit clash, helping India beat the Kiwis by four wickets and win the title. Although reports before the grand final suggested a different story, after Rohit guided India home, it changed to an extent where Rohit got the BCCI and the selectors’ backing to lead India in another major tournament - the England Tests. Also read | ‘He has no reason to retire,’ de Villiers throws weight behind Rohit, India’s almost ‘most successful captain’ “He has shown what he can do. Every stakeholder feels that he is the right candidate to lead the Indian side for the tour of England. Rohit too has expressed his eagerness to keep playing red-ball cricket,” a source close to the information said in a chat with the Indian Express. Retirement rumours – all up in the air Several reports of Rohit contemplating announcing his international retirement after the Champions Trophy final kept the fans on their toes; the Indian skipper smashed them out of the park the way he did it to the Kiwi bowlers in the final in Dubai. Although he remained committed to delivering for Indian cricket across formats, he kept mum about his chances of featuring in the next ODI World Cup a couple of years later. “Right now, I’m playing really well, and I’m enjoying everything I’m doing with this team and the team is enjoying my company as well, which is nice. I can’t really say 2027 because it’s too far, but I’m keeping all my options open,” Rohit said in a post-match presser. “It’s something that really makes me happy. There are a lot of things involved, there’s so much pride and the way this team is playing, I don’t want to leave this team. The way we are playing at this point in time, there is so much joy, so much fun to play with all of them,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

After squashing retirement rumours, Rohit to lead India in England Tests – Report

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has warned England ahead of the upcoming Ashes and suggests that the Bazball could work against them. Ponting who is in England for the World Test Championship (WTC) reckons, England don’t have a plan B and could see Australia regain the Ashes yet again. According to Aussie legend, flat wickets coupled with shorter boundaries could spell trouble for Ben Stones’ men which could see Australia yet again have their hands on the prize asset.

<h2>Ponting lacks faith in England</h2>

“It's been refreshing to see England’s win-at-all-costs mentality, not caring about losing a game – or not putting that ahead of trying to win a game,” Ponting said while speaking to the ICC’s channel.

“For that fact, I can't wait for the Ashes to start.

“I'm really intrigued to see what conditions England want to play that style of cricket. Because if they want the flatter wickets with the smaller boundaries, it might just backfire on their bowling group. That's the biggest thing for me,” the former Aussie captain added.

England have been well prepared for the Ashes and will look to regain the holy grail for the first time since 2015. The hosts will be favourites going into the contest having won 11 of the 13 matches played since Stokes took over the captaincy which was coupled with Brendon McCullum’s theory of a win-at-all-costs mentality.

England were beaten comprehensively 0-4 in the last Ashes of 2021-22 and were brought down to their knees. Joe Root’s side was not in great nick of form, which ultimately cost them a place in the final of the WTC despite 10 wins in their last 12 Test matches of the cycle.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ricky-ponting-explains-where-india-did-go-wrong-with-their-bowling-plans-in-first-innings-602434">WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings</a>

<h2>Schedule for Ashes</h2>

<ul>
	<li>First Test, Edgbaston, Birmingham June 16-20</li>
	<li>Second Test, Lord's, London June 28-July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test, Headingley, Leeds July 6-10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test, Old Trafford, Manchester July 19-23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test, The Oval, London, July 27-31</li>
</ul>

England squad for first two Ashes Tests

Ben Stokes (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.

Australia squad for first two Tests

Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vice-captain), Mitchell Starc, David Warner.

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Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has warned England ahead of the upcoming Ashes and suggests that the Bazball could work against them. Ponting who is in England for the World Test Championship (WTC) reckons, England don’t have a plan B and could see Australia regain the Ashes yet again.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has warned England ahead of the upcoming Ashes and suggests that the Bazball could work against them. Ponting who is in England for the World Test Championship (WTC) reckons, England don’t have a plan B and could see Australia regain the Ashes yet again. According to Aussie legend, flat wickets coupled with shorter boundaries could spell trouble for Ben Stones’ men which could see Australia yet again have their hands on the prize asset. Ponting lacks faith in England “It's been refreshing to see England’s win-at-all-costs mentality, not caring about losing a game – or not putting that ahead of trying to win a game,” Ponting said while speaking to the ICC’s channel. “For that fact, I can't wait for the Ashes to start. “I'm really intrigued to see what conditions England want to play that style of cricket. Because if they want the flatter wickets with the smaller boundaries, it might just backfire on their bowling group. That's the biggest thing for me,” the former Aussie captain added. England have been well prepared for the Ashes and will look to regain the holy grail for the first time since 2015. The hosts will be favourites going into the contest having won 11 of the 13 matches played since Stokes took over the captaincy which was coupled with Brendon McCullum’s theory of a win-at-all-costs mentality. England were beaten comprehensively 0-4 in the last Ashes of 2021-22 and were brought down to their knees. Joe Root’s side was not in great nick of form, which ultimately cost them a place in the final of the WTC despite 10 wins in their last 12 Test matches of the cycle. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings Schedule for Ashes First Test, Edgbaston, Birmingham June 16-20 Second Test, Lord's, London June 28-July 2 Third Test, Headingley, Leeds July 6-10 Fourth Test, Old Trafford, Manchester July 19-23 Fifth Test, The Oval, London, July 27-31 England squad for first two Ashes Tests Ben Stokes (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood. Australia squad for first two Tests Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vice-captain), Mitchell Starc, David Warner. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Ricky Ponting warns Ben Stokes' England before crunch series, suggests 'Bazball' could backfire

Team India will take on Joe Root and Co. in a five-match Test series after the conclusion of the World Test Championship final in England. The Men in Blue thrashed England in the four-match Test series at home earlier this year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-tim-southee-stars-as-new-zealand-eye-victory-on-reserve-day-393317">WTC Final: Tim Southee stars as New Zealand eye victory on the reserve day</a>

Virat and Co. will be looking to build on the confidence and clinch India a win in a Test series on English soil for the first time since 2007. However, former England skipper Alastair Cook believes and beating the English cricket team in their own backyard is very hard.&nbsp;

“It will be a better side with the players coming back against India. They'll clearly be better balanced which, I think, is a massive issue for them and forced some strange selections against New Zealand, like no spinner on a dry wicket," Cook told ESPN Cricinfo

“India have shown how good they are at the moment because they're in the World Test Championship final but, over five Test matches in England, England are hard to beat at home, and I’m expecting a very tight battle,” Cook was quoted as saying.

“India would have been here for a long time as well so could get mentally fatigued by the end of the tour. India will start pretty well but, consistently over five games, to beat England at home is a monumental effort. So, I think if England hang in with India early on, there's no reason why they can't win,” he added.

Cook felt sorry for Root as he hasn't had the best players available due to ECB's rotation policy.

“You have to say it hasn't worked for Rooty, and I do genuinely feel sorry for him. When you're playing for England, or you're the captain, coach or selector, you get judged on end results most of the time and he hasn't had his best players available.

“You can't buy the experience of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali -- those kinds of players make a big difference,” Cook said.

Team India will take on Joe Root and Co. in a five-match Test series after the conclusion of the World Test Championship final in England. The Men in Blue thrashed England in the four-match Test series at home earlier this year.

Team India will take on Joe Root and Co. in a five-match Test series after the conclusion of the World Test Championship final in England. The Men in Blue thrashed England in the four-match Test series at home earlier this year. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Tim Southee stars as New Zealand eye victory on the reserve day Virat and Co. will be looking to build on the confidence and clinch India a win in a Test series on English soil for the first time since 2007. However, former England skipper Alastair Cook believes and beating the English cricket team in their own backyard is very hard. “It will be a better side with the players coming back against India. They'll clearly be better balanced which, I think, is a massive issue for them and forced some strange selections against New Zealand, like no spinner on a dry wicket," Cook told ESPN Cricinfo “India have shown how good they are at the moment because they're in the World Test Championship final but, over five Test matches in England, England are hard to beat at home, and I’m expecting a very tight battle,” Cook was quoted as saying. “India would have been here for a long time as well so could get mentally fatigued by the end of the tour. India will start pretty well but, consistently over five games, to beat England at home is a monumental effort. So, I think if England hang in with India early on, there's no reason why they can't win,” he added. Cook felt sorry for Root as he hasn't had the best players available due to ECB's rotation policy. “You have to say it hasn't worked for Rooty, and I do genuinely feel sorry for him. When you're playing for England, or you're the captain, coach or selector, you get judged on end results most of the time and he hasn't had his best players available. “You can't buy the experience of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali -- those kinds of players make a big difference,” Cook said.

Cricket: 'England are hard to beat at home', reckons Alastair Cook ahead of India series

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that it won’t be surprising if England prepare green tracks for India in the upcoming five-Test series against India, scheduled to commence from August 4, after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final. <o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar, while recalling the criticism of Indian pitches when England visited India earlier in the year, said there was a lot of “moaning” about the tracks during the four-Test series, played in Chennai and Ahmedabad. <o:p></o:p>

"Having moaned about the pitches in India earlier this year, it won't be a surprise if the groundsman in England leaves a little grass on the surface,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for The Telegraph.<o:p></o:p>

However, the legendary Indian cricketer added that grassy pitches will no longer bother Virat Kohli and Co due to the quality of pace bowlers in the set-up while further saying that India have the bowling attack to give “problems” to the hosts. <o:p></o:p>

“That is no longer a worry as India have an attack that will also thrive on it and cause problems for the England batsmen too," Gavaskar added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bubble-life-taken-a-toll-on-me-mentally-andre-russell-389182" hreflang="en">Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell</a><o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar further opined that the gap of 40 days between the WTC final and England Test series will allow India to prepare enough for the five-match rubber by playing some practice matches. <o:p></o:p>

"The summer in England promises to be the golden summer of Indian cricket. After the WTC finals, there is a gap of about six weeks before the Test series starts against England and that should be enough for the team to play some practice games and tune-up for what England can hurl at them,” he wrote.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-final-will-be-challenging-but-its-time-to-enjoy-virat-kohli-389017" hreflang="en">Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli</a><o:p></o:p>

The iconic former Indian opener went on to say that the chances are high that it will be an “Indian summer” hinting that the visitors can pull off a series win on English conditions.<o:p></o:p>

“It is foolish to try and predict the score but it looks like it will be an Indian summer in England," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that it won’t be surprising if England prepare green tracks for India in the upcoming five-Test series against India, scheduled to commence from August 4, after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that it won’t be surprising if England prepare green tracks for India in the upcoming five-Test series against India, scheduled to commence from August 4, after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final. Gavaskar, while recalling the criticism of Indian pitches when England visited India earlier in the year, said there was a lot of “moaning” about the tracks during the four-Test series, played in Chennai and Ahmedabad. "Having moaned about the pitches in India earlier this year, it won't be a surprise if the groundsman in England leaves a little grass on the surface,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for The Telegraph. However, the legendary Indian cricketer added that grassy pitches will no longer bother Virat Kohli and Co due to the quality of pace bowlers in the set-up while further saying that India have the bowling attack to give “problems” to the hosts. “That is no longer a worry as India have an attack that will also thrive on it and cause problems for the England batsmen too," Gavaskar added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell Gavaskar further opined that the gap of 40 days between the WTC final and England Test series will allow India to prepare enough for the five-match rubber by playing some practice matches. "The summer in England promises to be the golden summer of Indian cricket. After the WTC finals, there is a gap of about six weeks before the Test series starts against England and that should be enough for the team to play some practice games and tune-up for what England can hurl at them,” he wrote. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli The iconic former Indian opener went on to say that the chances are high that it will be an “Indian summer” hinting that the visitors can pull off a series win on English conditions. “It is foolish to try and predict the score but it looks like it will be an Indian summer in England," he added.

Cricket: 'Won't be surprising if England prepare grassy pitches but expect 'Indian summer' - Sunil Gavaskar on India's tour of England

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

“Playing with two squads in different locations regularly is a possibility in the long run,” Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference.<o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to depart for their tour of the UK where they will play the ICC World Test Championship final before locking horns with England for a five-Test series. At the same time, the second-string Indian team will play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series in July. <o:p></o:p>

However, Shastri said that playing two different teams could also help T20 cricket to spread across the globe.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-difficult-to-stay-motivated-skipper-virat-kohli-on-mental-wellbeing-of-players-ahead-of-wtc-finals-389022" hreflang="en">'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"Well you never know. At the moment it's happening because of the current situation and restriction in travel and things of that sort. But you never know. In the future if you want to expand the game, especially in the shorter of formats, then it could be the way to go,” said Shastri.<o:p></o:p>

"You know, why not, when you have that much volume of cricketers and if you want to spread the T20 game, across the globe, then that could be the way ahead because if you're talking of Olympics in four years or eight years'' time, you need more countries to play the game. So that could be a way forward," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, captain Virat Kohli also echoed Shastri’s opinion as he said that playing regular cricket with quarantine and bio-bubble restriction in place, is a tough ask on players as it is difficult for them to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-final-will-be-challenging-but-its-time-to-enjoy-virat-kohli-389017" hreflang="en">Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli</a><o:p></o:p>

"With the current structure and the kind of structure that you're competing inside for a long period of time, it's very difficult for the players to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space," said Kohli.<o:p></o:p>

"You know just confined in one area and just doing the stuff, day in day out when you're dealing with high pressure situations. So, this (two squads) will definitely become a norm for the future," he added.<o:p></o:p>

The final of World Test Championship between India and New Zealand is set to be played in Southampton from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic. “Playing with two squads in different locations regularly is a possibility in the long run,” Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to depart for their tour of the UK where they will play the ICC World Test Championship final before locking horns with England for a five-Test series. At the same time, the second-string Indian team will play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series in July. However, Shastri said that playing two different teams could also help T20 cricket to spread across the globe. ALSO READ: 'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals "Well you never know. At the moment it's happening because of the current situation and restriction in travel and things of that sort. But you never know. In the future if you want to expand the game, especially in the shorter of formats, then it could be the way to go,” said Shastri. "You know, why not, when you have that much volume of cricketers and if you want to spread the T20 game, across the globe, then that could be the way ahead because if you're talking of Olympics in four years or eight years'' time, you need more countries to play the game. So that could be a way forward," he added. Furthermore, captain Virat Kohli also echoed Shastri’s opinion as he said that playing regular cricket with quarantine and bio-bubble restriction in place, is a tough ask on players as it is difficult for them to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli "With the current structure and the kind of structure that you're competing inside for a long period of time, it's very difficult for the players to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space," said Kohli. "You know just confined in one area and just doing the stuff, day in day out when you're dealing with high pressure situations. So, this (two squads) will definitely become a norm for the future," he added. The final of World Test Championship between India and New Zealand is set to be played in Southampton from June 18.

Cricket: Two Indian team playing different formats the way forward, opines Ravi Shastri

Bengal batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran is set to embark on a three-and-a-half-month journey to the UK after being named in the standby for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand and a five-match Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

The 25-year-old has been knocking on the doors of the senior national team for a few seasons now. Having scored an impressive 861 runs in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season, Easwaran caught the eyes of the national selectors and has been a constant part of the India ‘A’ side. The elegant right-handed batter was also among the standbys when England played a four-Test series in India earlier this year. <o:p></o:p>

In an interaction with WION, Abhimanyu Easwaran shared his experience of rubbing shoulders with the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, the upcoming tour of England, Abhimanyu Cricket Academy, his experience in Red Bull Campus Cricket and much more.

<o:p></o:p>

“It was an amazing experience. I was able to learn so much from the senior members of the side, sharing the nets, having practice sessions together. It was an education for me. The intensity with which Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or other senior members of the team train, is unbelievable. You learn a lot by simply watching them go about their business in nets. I feel it is about learning as much as possible and become a better version of yourself,” Easwaran told WION in an interview.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-tests-are-not-warm-ups-for-the-world-test-championship-final-says-neil-wagner-385631" hreflang="en">England Tests are not warm-ups for the World Test Championship final, says Neil Wagner</a>

<img alt="AE-1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1fe0a2e9-be78-4ccb-9be4-fea9699d7282" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/navbharat-times_0.jpg" />

When asked whether he had any one-on-on discussion with Kohli or other senior members of the squad, Easwaran said: “Yes, I did have a conversation with Virat Kohli. It was more personal as in how he approaches a practice session or a match, how he adjusts to different match scenarios and other mental aspects of the game. His confidence rubs off on others and I could feel it.”

<o:p></o:p>

“I had a good chat with R Sridhar (India’s fielding coach) and attended his training sessions with utmost focus. I learned a lot by watching Ajinkya Rahane, who focuses with the same intensity on fielding as much as he does on batting, so it was brilliant learning for me,” Easwaran, the skipper of the Bengal Ranji Trophy team, added.<o:p></o:p>

The 25-year-old has a cricket academy named after him in Dehradun. Easwaran gets his love for cricket from his father - RP Easwaran – who took the charge even before the talented batsman was born. Manoj Rawat and Nirmalya Sengupta were hired as personal coaches for Abhimanyu, traveling with him to matches to observe and monitor his growth. Even the great Ramakant Achrekar, Roger Binny and Arshad Ayub have worked with Easwaran in small capacities.

<img alt="AE-2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee094c3f-1c73-463c-8017-5b141d591c3d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AE-4_0.jpg" />

<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the gruelling tour of England, and a time, when parts of India are reeling under complete or partial lockdowns, Easwaran is spending his time in Dehradun while gearing up for the much-awaited series. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

“Credit to my father, he is really passionate about cricket and built the academy even before I was born. The facilities are good and I can completely focus on my game here. In normal days, I hardly get time to be there but now, I am practicing on different aspects of my game and using the facilities as much as I can,” Easwaran quipped.

<o:p></o:p>

A major part of Easwaran’s rise was featuring for his college, Umes Chandra College in Red Bull Campus Cricket. Easwaran added that playing Red Bull Campus Cricket provided him a major confidence boost while giving him access to competitive, well-organised&nbsp;cricket tournaments.

<o:p></o:p>

“It was a delightful experience. To have a well-organised tournament at such a young age was crucial to my development. It was great to rub shoulders with players from across the country. I feel, such tournaments are important in a youngster’s development and Red Bull has done a great job in providing that platform to all,” Easwaran said.

<o:p><img alt="AE-1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="94c21b7b-f25d-4837-a613-c6c8ebfa7874" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Easwaran_0.JPG" /></o:p>

Indian players will assemble in Mumbai on May 19 for a 14-day quarantine before departing for the UK on June 2.&nbsp;Apart from the WTC final against New Zealand from June 18, India will play five Tests against England in August-September.<o:p></o:p>

Bengal batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran is set to embark on a three-and-a-half-month journey to the UK after being named in the standby for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand and a five-match Test series against England.

Bengal batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran is set to embark on a three-and-a-half-month journey to the UK after being named in the standby for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand and a five-match Test series against England. The 25-year-old has been knocking on the doors of the senior national team for a few seasons now. Having scored an impressive 861 runs in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season, Easwaran caught the eyes of the national selectors and has been a constant part of the India ‘A’ side. The elegant right-handed batter was also among the standbys when England played a four-Test series in India earlier this year. In an interaction with WION, Abhimanyu Easwaran shared his experience of rubbing shoulders with the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, the upcoming tour of England, Abhimanyu Cricket Academy, his experience in Red Bull Campus Cricket and much more. “It was an amazing experience. I was able to learn so much from the senior members of the side, sharing the nets, having practice sessions together. It was an education for me. The intensity with which Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or other senior members of the team train, is unbelievable. You learn a lot by simply watching them go about their business in nets. I feel it is about learning as much as possible and become a better version of yourself,” Easwaran told WION in an interview. ALSO READ: England Tests are not warm-ups for the World Test Championship final, says Neil Wagner When asked whether he had any one-on-on discussion with Kohli or other senior members of the squad, Easwaran said: “Yes, I did have a conversation with Virat Kohli. It was more personal as in how he approaches a practice session or a match, how he adjusts to different match scenarios and other mental aspects of the game. His confidence rubs off on others and I could feel it.” “I had a good chat with R Sridhar (India’s fielding coach) and attended his training sessions with utmost focus. I learned a lot by watching Ajinkya Rahane, who focuses with the same intensity on fielding as much as he does on batting, so it was brilliant learning for me,” Easwaran, the skipper of the Bengal Ranji Trophy team, added. The 25-year-old has a cricket academy named after him in Dehradun. Easwaran gets his love for cricket from his father - RP Easwaran – who took the charge even before the talented batsman was born. Manoj Rawat and Nirmalya Sengupta were hired as personal coaches for Abhimanyu, traveling with him to matches to observe and monitor his growth. Even the great Ramakant Achrekar, Roger Binny and Arshad Ayub have worked with Easwaran in small capacities. Ahead of the gruelling tour of England, and a time, when parts of India are reeling under complete or partial lockdowns, Easwaran is spending his time in Dehradun while gearing up for the much-awaited series. “Credit to my father, he is really passionate about cricket and built the academy even before I was born. The facilities are good and I can completely focus on my game here. In normal days, I hardly get time to be there but now, I am practicing on different aspects of my game and using the facilities as much as I can,” Easwaran quipped. A major part of Easwaran’s rise was featuring for his college, Umes Chandra College in Red Bull Campus Cricket. Easwaran added that playing Red Bull Campus Cricket provided him a major confidence boost while giving him access to competitive, well-organised cricket tournaments. “It was a delightful experience. To have a well-organised tournament at such a young age was crucial to my development. It was great to rub shoulders with players from across the country. I feel, such tournaments are important in a youngster’s development and Red Bull has done a great job in providing that platform to all,” Easwaran said. Indian players will assemble in Mumbai on May 19 for a 14-day quarantine before departing for the UK on June 2. Apart from the WTC final against New Zealand from June 18, India will play five Tests against England in August-September.

'Virat Kohli's confidence, energy rub off on others': Abhimanyu Easwaran to WION

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has predicted the score-line of the upcoming Test series between England and India. Team India will play five-match Test series against England in August-September after the conclusion of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton, against England in June.<o:p></o:p>

Dravid predicted that the series will be “tough” but said that he believes that India have a very good chance to defeat the Joe Root-led side. Notably, Dravid was the last Indian captain to win a Test series on England soil in the year 2007.<o:p></o:p>

However, Dravid questioned England’s batting line-up and said they have only two word-class batsmen in Joe Root and Ben Stokes. The living legend further added that no team has had better preparation heading into England series as the Virat Kohli and Co. would be spending almost a month in preparation following the conclusion of the World Test Championship final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-ipl-2021-be-played-in-between-wtc-final-and-england-series-sourav-ganguly-responds-383923" hreflang="en">Can IPL 2021 be played in between WTC final and England series? Sourav Ganguly responds</a> 
<o:p></o:p>

"I really do think India have a very good chance this time," Dravid said in a webinar organised by Live Aid India, a trust to help those affected by Covid-19. "There's no question about their [England's] bowling. Whatever bowling attack England put on the park, especially their seam-bowling attack, is going to be fantastic. They have a lot of players to pick and choose from and that's going to be terrific.<o:p></o:p>

"But if you look at their top six or top seven, you really think of one great batsman, a world-class batsman who is Joe Root. Obviously, Ben Stokes is another one, who is a good all-rounder, but for some reason [R] Ashwin seems to do well against him. And that should be an interesting contest. I know he's done well against him [Stokes] in India, but it'll still be an interesting subplot to the series.<o:p></o:p>

"But I just think India will be well-prepared, have the confidence from Australia, there's lot of belief in the squad. A couple of players have been to England a few times, there's a lot of experience in the batting order this time around, so this is probably our best chance, maybe say 3-2 to India."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-expresses-his-gratitude-towards-frontline-workers-amidst-covid-19-crisis-383915" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli expresses his 'gratitude' towards frontline workers amidst COVID-19 crisis</a>

"After the WTC final, they're going to be in England for a whole month before the Test series starts. I don't think any team has had that kind of time to prepare for a Test series."<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the BCCI has announced the India squad for the WTC final and five-Test series versus England.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>India's squad: Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Rohit Sharma, Gill, Mayank, Cheteshwar Pujara, H. Vihari, Rishabh (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Bumrah, Ishant, Shami, Siraj, Shardul, Umesh. KL Rahul &amp; Saha (WK) subject to fitness clearance.</o:p>

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has predicted the score-line of the upcoming Test series between England and India. Team India will play five-match Test series against England in August-September after the conclusion of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton, against England in June.

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has predicted the score-line of the upcoming Test series between England and India. Team India will play five-match Test series against England in August-September after the conclusion of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton, against England in June. Dravid predicted that the series will be “tough” but said that he believes that India have a very good chance to defeat the Joe Root-led side. Notably, Dravid was the last Indian captain to win a Test series on England soil in the year 2007. However, Dravid questioned England’s batting line-up and said they have only two word-class batsmen in Joe Root and Ben Stokes. The living legend further added that no team has had better preparation heading into England series as the Virat Kohli and Co. would be spending almost a month in preparation following the conclusion of the World Test Championship final. ALSO READ: Can IPL 2021 be played in between WTC final and England series? Sourav Ganguly responds "I really do think India have a very good chance this time," Dravid said in a webinar organised by Live Aid India, a trust to help those affected by Covid-19. "There's no question about their [England's] bowling. Whatever bowling attack England put on the park, especially their seam-bowling attack, is going to be fantastic. They have a lot of players to pick and choose from and that's going to be terrific. "But if you look at their top six or top seven, you really think of one great batsman, a world-class batsman who is Joe Root. Obviously, Ben Stokes is another one, who is a good all-rounder, but for some reason [R] Ashwin seems to do well against him. And that should be an interesting contest. I know he's done well against him [Stokes] in India, but it'll still be an interesting subplot to the series. "But I just think India will be well-prepared, have the confidence from Australia, there's lot of belief in the squad. A couple of players have been to England a few times, there's a lot of experience in the batting order this time around, so this is probably our best chance, maybe say 3-2 to India." ALSO READ: Virat Kohli expresses his 'gratitude' towards frontline workers amidst COVID-19 crisis "After the WTC final, they're going to be in England for a whole month before the Test series starts. I don't think any team has had that kind of time to prepare for a Test series." Meanwhile, the BCCI has announced the India squad for the WTC final and five-Test series versus England. India's squad: Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Rohit Sharma, Gill, Mayank, Cheteshwar Pujara, H. Vihari, Rishabh (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Bumrah, Ishant, Shami, Siraj, Shardul, Umesh. KL Rahul & Saha (WK) subject to fitness clearance. Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

'India have very good chance': Rahul Dravid predicts the scoreline of England vs India Test series

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced a provisional home schedule for the 2021 season with a five-match Test series against India set to headline the English summer.

Besides India, England will also host Sri Lanka and Pakistan for limited-overs matches between June and July before the first Test against India on August 4-8 at the iconic Trent Bridge. The final Test between England and India is scheduled to be held in Manchester from September 10 to September 14.

Earlier in 2020, England became the first side to invite teams after the COVID-19-enforced break and hosted matches in bio-secure bubbles inside closed doors. However, the ECB hopes to host spectators in the stadiums with general sale tickets set to be made available in January.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-like-ganguly-has-taken-india-australia-rivalry-to-next-level-john-buchanan-343907" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli, like Ganguly, has taken India-Australia rivalry to next level: John Buchanan</a>

“Next year we’ve got another big international programme to look forward to, with the thrill of a five-test series against India as the centrepiece,” ECB CEO Tom Harrison said in a statement.

“While COVID means there’s still a great deal of uncertainty, we really hope to be able to welcome fans back into the grounds safely next year to bring that unique atmosphere to stadia across the country.”

Furthermore, the England women’s team has plans of hosting South Africa and New Zealand while the visually impaired team lock horns with Australia in a limited-overs series in August.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-in-commonwealth-games-icc-announces-qualification-process-343893" hreflang="en">Cricket in Commonwealth Games: ICC announces qualification process</a>

<h2>Provisional England men’s schedule for 2021 home summer:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>&nbsp;England v Sri Lanka: Three one-day internationals (ODIs) from June 29</li>
	<li>&nbsp;England v Pakistan: Three ODIs and three Twenty20 matches from July 8</li>
	<li>&nbsp;England v India: Five test matches from Aug. 4</li>
</ul>

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced a provisional home schedule for the 2021 season with a five-match Test series against India set to headline the English summer.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced a provisional home schedule for the 2021 season with a five-match Test series against India set to headline the English summer. Besides India, England will also host Sri Lanka and Pakistan for limited-overs matches between June and July before the first Test against India on August 4-8 at the iconic Trent Bridge. The final Test between England and India is scheduled to be held in Manchester from September 10 to September 14. Earlier in 2020, England became the first side to invite teams after the COVID-19-enforced break and hosted matches in bio-secure bubbles inside closed doors. However, the ECB hopes to host spectators in the stadiums with general sale tickets set to be made available in January. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli, like Ganguly, has taken India-Australia rivalry to next level: John Buchanan “Next year we’ve got another big international programme to look forward to, with the thrill of a five-test series against India as the centrepiece,” ECB CEO Tom Harrison said in a statement. “While COVID means there’s still a great deal of uncertainty, we really hope to be able to welcome fans back into the grounds safely next year to bring that unique atmosphere to stadia across the country.” Furthermore, the England women’s team has plans of hosting South Africa and New Zealand while the visually impaired team lock horns with Australia in a limited-overs series in August. ALSO READ: Cricket in Commonwealth Games: ICC announces qualification process Provisional England men’s schedule for 2021 home summer: England v Sri Lanka: Three one-day internationals (ODIs) from June 29 England v Pakistan: Three ODIs and three Twenty20 matches from July 8 England v India: Five test matches from Aug. 4

England to host India for five Tests in 2021; check tentative schedule

With the announcement that ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, due to take place across Australia in October and November 2020, has been postponed and the present COVID-19 situation in India, the BCCI and ECB have confirmed that England men’s white-ball tour to India, originally scheduled in the ICC Future Tours Programme for late September to early October 2020, will be postponed until early 2021.

BCCI and ECB are in consultation with a view to confirming the 2021 schedules for an all-formats England men’s tour to India to run from late January to late March and for India’s Test tour to England due in the summer of 2021.

ECB’s Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “Now that we have clarity regarding the postponement of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, it enables us to work with other Boards to progress the vital task of optimising the international schedules in the challenging circumstances that we have all been having to address with the COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-bcci-gets-in-principle-government-approval-to-shift-tournament-to-uae-318839" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: BCCI gets 'in principle' government approval to shift tournament to UAE</a>

“International cricket between India and England is a highlight of the cricketing calendar and we look forward to working with the BCCI to firm-up the schedules for these eagerly anticipated tours as soon as possible.”

Jay Shah, BCCI Secretary, added:&nbsp;“The BCCI and ECB are working closely to finalise the schedule as we move towards the resumption of cricket. The India-England series is one of the most anticipated contests in world cricket. The two teams compete hard on the field and provide some riveting moments.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-board-meet-on-friday-bcci-ca-to-discuss-on-swapping-of-t20-world-cups-318827" hreflang="en">ICC Board meet on Friday: BCCI, CA to discuss on swapping of T20 World Cups</a>

“I am pleased with the way BCCI and ECB have managed the situation. The rescheduled tour is also being redesigned in a way to accommodate both red and white-ball format and will now be a comprehensive one.”

With the announcement that ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, due to take place across Australia in October and November 2020, has been postponed and the present COVID-19 situation in India, the BCCI and ECB have confirmed that England men’s white-ball tour to India, originally scheduled in the ICC Future Tours Programme for late September to early October 2020, will be postponed until early 2021.

With the announcement that ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, due to take place across Australia in October and November 2020, has been postponed and the present COVID-19 situation in India, the BCCI and ECB have confirmed that England men’s white-ball tour to India, originally scheduled in the ICC Future Tours Programme for late September to early October 2020, will be postponed until early 2021. BCCI and ECB are in consultation with a view to confirming the 2021 schedules for an all-formats England men’s tour to India to run from late January to late March and for India’s Test tour to England due in the summer of 2021. ECB’s Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “Now that we have clarity regarding the postponement of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, it enables us to work with other Boards to progress the vital task of optimising the international schedules in the challenging circumstances that we have all been having to address with the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: BCCI gets 'in principle' government approval to shift tournament to UAE “International cricket between India and England is a highlight of the cricketing calendar and we look forward to working with the BCCI to firm-up the schedules for these eagerly anticipated tours as soon as possible.” Jay Shah, BCCI Secretary, added: “The BCCI and ECB are working closely to finalise the schedule as we move towards the resumption of cricket. The India-England series is one of the most anticipated contests in world cricket. The two teams compete hard on the field and provide some riveting moments. ALSO READ: ICC Board meet on Friday: BCCI, CA to discuss on swapping of T20 World Cups “I am pleased with the way BCCI and ECB have managed the situation. The rescheduled tour is also being redesigned in a way to accommodate both red and white-ball format and will now be a comprehensive one.”

England's white-ball Tour to India postponed until early 2021

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