Joe Root and Co. are set to lock horns with Virat's Indian in the four-match Test series, starting from Friday in Chennai. The English captain feels that facing Team India would be a "huge challenge" but a series win against Sri Lanka, last month, will boost some confidence in his teammates.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-deserve-to-be-in-wtc-final-india-focused-on-england-series-ajinkya-rahane-361135" hreflang="en">New Zealand deserve to be in WTC final, India focused on England series: Ajinkya Rahane</a>

“We are getting a huge amount of confidence after winning the two Tests against Sri Lanka, we are realistic about where we are as a team. We know this is going to be a huge challenge for us, we are looking forward to it. It is about concentrating on the right things which we think would be the best for us, this is a great opportunity for this group, we are looking forward to the next four Tests,” said Root during the virtual conference.

However, Root felt that Cheteshwar Pujara is going to be a 'huge wicket' for the team as he had a fantastic run in India's historic triumph in Australia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3-spinners-and-2-pacers-team-indias-predicted-playing-xi-vs-england-for-1st-test-361313" hreflang="en">3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test</a>

“I think he is a fantastic player, I had the pleasure of playing a couple of games with him for Yorkshire. To learn from him and speak about batting, was really interesting.

“Playing against him and being on the wrong end of him scoring some runs, you learn from those kinds of innings. You have seen his importance and what he adds to the Indian team, he is going to be a huge wicket for us, no doubt,” said Root.

“There would be times when we would be required to stay patient, and we need to be mentally strong as he is at the crease, we know he is a fantastic player. He has a fantastic record at home, in particular, it is going to be a great challenge to come up against him,” he added.

Joe Root and Co. are set to lock horns with Virat's Indian in the four-match Test series, starting from Friday in Chennai. The English captain feels that facing Team India would be a "huge challenge" but a series win against Sri Lanka, last month, will boost some confidence in his teammates.

Joe Root and Co. are set to lock horns with Virat's Indian in the four-match Test series, starting from Friday in Chennai. The English captain feels that facing Team India would be a "huge challenge" but a series win against Sri Lanka, last month, will boost some confidence in his teammates. ALSO READ: New Zealand deserve to be in WTC final, India focused on England series: Ajinkya Rahane “We are getting a huge amount of confidence after winning the two Tests against Sri Lanka, we are realistic about where we are as a team. We know this is going to be a huge challenge for us, we are looking forward to it. It is about concentrating on the right things which we think would be the best for us, this is a great opportunity for this group, we are looking forward to the next four Tests,” said Root during the virtual conference. However, Root felt that Cheteshwar Pujara is going to be a 'huge wicket' for the team as he had a fantastic run in India's historic triumph in Australia. ALSO READ: 3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test “I think he is a fantastic player, I had the pleasure of playing a couple of games with him for Yorkshire. To learn from him and speak about batting, was really interesting. “Playing against him and being on the wrong end of him scoring some runs, you learn from those kinds of innings. You have seen his importance and what he adds to the Indian team, he is going to be a huge wicket for us, no doubt,” said Root. “There would be times when we would be required to stay patient, and we need to be mentally strong as he is at the crease, we know he is a fantastic player. He has a fantastic record at home, in particular, it is going to be a great challenge to come up against him,” he added.

'He is fantastic player': Joe Root names this Indian batsman who will be 'huge wicket' for team

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India.

England, who have at least 17 Tests including the Ashes scheduled in 2021, begin their four-match India series in Chennai on Friday.

The 25-year-old Archer, along with Ben Stokes, was rested for the Sri Lanka tour as Joe Root's England swept the two-Test series 2-0 last month.

"It's going to be a long long year," Archer told reporters after a training session in Chennai.

"We've got a few series coming up. I think body management is going to be essential if I want to play everything, almost everything."

The Barbados-born bowler joined his teammates including coach Chris Silverwood and Jos Buttler in lauding the England and Wales Cricket board for their rest-and-rotate policy during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Anyone that's criticising it never spent time in the bubble. One golfer left after four days. We have been in here for almost a year now," he said.

"At the end of the day humans are social people and sometimes it gets hard, especially if you've not had a great game or if you are not feeling good but then in cricket there is no escape."

He added: "I think the ECB has made it really great to give people (time off), myself I had six weeks away.

"I think Jos (Buttler) is done after this game and for a little bit Sam's (Curran) gone. So they are making a priority, everyone gets time away, so that we can come back refreshed and ready to go."

Archer, who has become a key part of England's pace attack since making his debut in 2019, said he is ready to be in the team bubble for a few months ahead.&nbsp;

"I don't mind to be honest because I know that I would get time away so I'm just going to follow the job at hand now," said Archer.

"And if it gets too overbearing then there is no shame in saying that. But I think right now I am good to go until at least July."

Archer has claimed 38 wickets in 11 Tests and 37 scalps in 24 limited-overs matches for the national team.

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India.

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India. England, who have at least 17 Tests including the Ashes scheduled in 2021, begin their four-match India series in Chennai on Friday. The 25-year-old Archer, along with Ben Stokes, was rested for the Sri Lanka tour as Joe Root's England swept the two-Test series 2-0 last month. "It's going to be a long long year," Archer told reporters after a training session in Chennai. "We've got a few series coming up. I think body management is going to be essential if I want to play everything, almost everything." The Barbados-born bowler joined his teammates including coach Chris Silverwood and Jos Buttler in lauding the England and Wales Cricket board for their rest-and-rotate policy during the coronavirus pandemic. "Anyone that's criticising it never spent time in the bubble. One golfer left after four days. We have been in here for almost a year now," he said. "At the end of the day humans are social people and sometimes it gets hard, especially if you've not had a great game or if you are not feeling good but then in cricket there is no escape." He added: "I think the ECB has made it really great to give people (time off), myself I had six weeks away. "I think Jos (Buttler) is done after this game and for a little bit Sam's (Curran) gone. So they are making a priority, everyone gets time away, so that we can come back refreshed and ready to go." Archer, who has become a key part of England's pace attack since making his debut in 2019, said he is ready to be in the team bubble for a few months ahead. "I don't mind to be honest because I know that I would get time away so I'm just going to follow the job at hand now," said Archer. "And if it gets too overbearing then there is no shame in saying that. But I think right now I am good to go until at least July." Archer has claimed 38 wickets in 11 Tests and 37 scalps in 24 limited-overs matches for the national team.

Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.&nbsp;Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests.&nbsp;

Root is all set to play his 100th&nbsp;Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances.&nbsp;And Root's 100th&nbsp;Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India.&nbsp;

Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties.&nbsp;Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will&nbsp;make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-worry-for-the-game-michael-vaughan-expresses-concerns-over-sa-vs-aus-series-postponement-361056" hreflang="en">'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement</a>

The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India.&nbsp;Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection.&nbsp;The 23-year-old has&nbsp;practised&nbsp;with the full squad over the past two days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5. Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests. Root is all set to play his 100th Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances. And Root's 100th Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India. Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties. Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket. ALSO READ: 'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India. ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior Meanwhile, batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India. Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection. The 23-year-old has practised with the full squad over the past two days.

Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes&nbsp;on Australian soil. The Ashes is arguably the greatest cricket rivalry – between England and Australia – but with India cementing their place as one of the&nbsp;greatest teams on home soil, there is a momentum shift in the cricketing world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's certainly right up there. The Ashes gets all the publicity and everything that goes with it but India is an equally tough - if not tougher - place to go and win a series. It might even pip it for me: we won in Australia [in 2010-11] for the first time in 25 years but we won in India for the first time in 28,” Prior told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;

Prior has played a few Test matches against India and was part of the historic England squad that scripted history in 2012 by defeating India in the Test series&nbsp;– a feat achieved by the English team after a staggering 28 years.&nbsp;It remains India's last home Test series defeat.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior recalled playing Test matches on Indian soil as he said that getting a result in India is mentally and physically draining and being successful there is a "very proud moment" in his career.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/archer-says-body-management-key-in-busy-england-calender-361017" hreflang="en">Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calendar</a>

"I remember coming in, taking my kit off, and before I knew it, I was asleep. I was just so drained from the whole experience. That's why you do it, and that's what made it such a good victory (in 2012). It is so mentally and physically draining to get a result out there (in India). To go there and be successful is a real privilege [so] it was a very proud moment in all of our careers,” he added.&nbsp;

Prior, regarded as one of the finest English&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;to have played the game, touched upon the technical challenges that come while playing in India. The 38-year-old said that on&nbsp;Indian conditions, batsmen, bowlers, wicket-keepers and even fielders have to change their game-pan in a bid to challenge the dominating Indian side.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stance-taken-by-ca-is-regrettable-cricket-south-africa-reacts-to-australia-series-postponement-360897" hreflang="en">'Stance taken by CA is regrettable...': Cricket South Africa reacts to Australia series postponement</a>

"Playing Test cricket in India is about attrition. From a wicket-keeping perspective, in the first over of the day, with Jimmy Anderson bowling in the high-80s [mph/140kph], I was standing literally four yards back.&nbsp;

“For players who have grown up in England, you're used to the ball swinging and seaming, and leaving on length and in the channel, but your whole game-plan has to change, whether that's for batsmen, bowlers, wicketkeepers, or even fielders,” he explained.&nbsp;

India's four-Test series against England commences from February 5 and will be followed by five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes on Australian soil.

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes on Australian soil. The Ashes is arguably the greatest cricket rivalry – between England and Australia – but with India cementing their place as one of the greatest teams on home soil, there is a momentum shift in the cricketing world. "It's certainly right up there. The Ashes gets all the publicity and everything that goes with it but India is an equally tough - if not tougher - place to go and win a series. It might even pip it for me: we won in Australia [in 2010-11] for the first time in 25 years but we won in India for the first time in 28,” Prior told ESPNCricinfo. Prior has played a few Test matches against India and was part of the historic England squad that scripted history in 2012 by defeating India in the Test series – a feat achieved by the English team after a staggering 28 years. It remains India's last home Test series defeat. Prior recalled playing Test matches on Indian soil as he said that getting a result in India is mentally and physically draining and being successful there is a "very proud moment" in his career. ALSO READ: Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calendar "I remember coming in, taking my kit off, and before I knew it, I was asleep. I was just so drained from the whole experience. That's why you do it, and that's what made it such a good victory (in 2012). It is so mentally and physically draining to get a result out there (in India). To go there and be successful is a real privilege [so] it was a very proud moment in all of our careers,” he added. Prior, regarded as one of the finest English glovesman to have played the game, touched upon the technical challenges that come while playing in India. The 38-year-old said that on Indian conditions, batsmen, bowlers, wicket-keepers and even fielders have to change their game-pan in a bid to challenge the dominating Indian side. ALSO READ: 'Stance taken by CA is regrettable...': Cricket South Africa reacts to Australia series postponement "Playing Test cricket in India is about attrition. From a wicket-keeping perspective, in the first over of the day, with Jimmy Anderson bowling in the high-80s [mph/140kph], I was standing literally four yards back. “For players who have grown up in England, you're used to the ball swinging and seaming, and leaving on length and in the channel, but your whole game-plan has to change, whether that's for batsmen, bowlers, wicketkeepers, or even fielders,” he explained. India's four-Test series against England commences from February 5 and will be followed by five T20Is and three ODIs.

Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat&nbsp;India at home in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can&nbsp;utilise&nbsp;the Indian conditions to perfection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-team-to-start-full-group-training-from-tuesday-as-all-covid-19-tests-return-negative-360640" hreflang="en">England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative</a>

“It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir&nbsp;said on Star Sports show Game Plan.&nbsp;

England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of&nbsp;2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-shattering-twin-records-against-england-360627" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England</a>

“This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added.&nbsp;

India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad.

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat India at home in the longest format of the game. However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series. Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can utilise the Indian conditions to perfection. ALSO READ: England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative “It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir said on Star Sports show Game Plan. England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England “This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit Bumrah on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added. India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

India vs England: Gautam Gambhir predicts scoreline of Test series

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from&nbsp;February 5. Thus far, only the troika of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Rory burns were practising as they had reached India days before their team-mates and completed their quarantine period before the rest of the squad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stokes, Archer and Burns will now gear up to welcome the rest of the team&nbsp;with England set to commence final preparations ahead of the first Test in Chennai, scheduled to kick-start from February 5.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, England team will take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the first time as a full group since landing in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-shattering-twin-records-against-england-360627" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England</a>

England are coming at the back of a fantastic 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka as the Joe Root-led side dominated the proceedings in both the matches. Whereas India will be high on confidence after their historic 2-1&nbsp;triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With both England and India in form, the four-match Test series promises to be a great spectacle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, England's Jos Buttler welcomed the challenges of keeping wickets in India as he said that the turning tracks&nbsp;can sometimes be a tricky ask for a&nbsp;glovesman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-want-to-be-part-of-pujara-confident-of-playing-in-ipl-360384" hreflang="en">'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL</a>

"There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday.&nbsp;

"There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa.&nbsp;So&nbsp;you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances.&nbsp;And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..."

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from February 5.

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from February 5. Thus far, only the troika of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Rory burns were practising as they had reached India days before their team-mates and completed their quarantine period before the rest of the squad. Stokes, Archer and Burns will now gear up to welcome the rest of the team with England set to commence final preparations ahead of the first Test in Chennai, scheduled to kick-start from February 5. On Tuesday, England team will take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the first time as a full group since landing in India. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England England are coming at the back of a fantastic 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka as the Joe Root-led side dominated the proceedings in both the matches. Whereas India will be high on confidence after their historic 2-1 triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With both England and India in form, the four-match Test series promises to be a great spectacle. Meanwhile, England's Jos Buttler welcomed the challenges of keeping wickets in India as he said that the turning tracks can sometimes be a tricky ask for a glovesman. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL "There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday. "There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa. So you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances. And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..." England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative

Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed&nbsp;the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. Kohli has always enjoyed batting against England and the swashbuckling batsman will be eyeing twin records when he takes the field for the four-Test series, starting February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar holds the record of scoring most runs at home against England and Kohli is 489 runs away from achieving the iconic feat. While Kohli is currently sixth in the list with 843 runs from 9 home matches against England, Gavaskar accumulated 1331 runs in 22 matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Gavaskar, Gundappa Viswanath (1022 runs in 17 matches),&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar (960 runs in 15 matches), Vijay Manjrekar (885 runs in 11 matches) and ML Jaisimha (843&nbsp;runs in 10 matches) are head of Kohli in the list but the Indian skipper, with his run-scoring record against England, is&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to topple the greats and take the&nbsp;numero&nbsp;uno spot.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-players-look-bit-scared-under-virat-kohli-opines-lee-360608" hreflang="en">Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{167}" paraid="952450856" >Most runs scored&nbsp;vs&nbsp;England in home Test&nbsp;matches:&nbsp;</h2>

Sunil Gavaskar - 1331 runs in 22 matches&nbsp;

Gundappa Viswanath - 1022 runs in 17 matches&nbsp;

Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar - 960 runs in 15 matches&nbsp;

Vijay Manjrekar - 885 runs in 11 matches&nbsp;

ML Jaisimha - 843 runs in 10 matches&nbsp;

Virat Kohli - 843 runs in 9 matches&nbsp;

Cheteshwar Pujara - 839 runs in 9 matches&nbsp;

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06a54f9f-eb67-4ad0-8568-613891859b71" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1834P9.jpg" />

Kohli will also look to break Ricky Ponting's record of scoring most centuries as captain in home Test matches. While Ponting had scored 11 centuries and 3555 runs as captain in home Tests, Kohli has 10 records and 2699 runs.&nbsp;Currently, Kohli is locked with Greg Chappell, Steve Smith with 10 centuries in home Tests as a captain.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-want-to-be-part-of-pujara-confident-of-playing-in-ipl-360384" hreflang="en">'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{88fa032b-872e-4b3f-9a1e-81eb4a6ef9b6}{104}" paraid="1923951398" >Most&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;as captain in home Test&nbsp;matches:&nbsp;</h2>

Ricky Ponting - 11&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 39 matches&nbsp;

Greg Chappell - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 33 matches&nbsp;

Virat Kohli - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 26 matches&nbsp;

Steve Smith - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 20 matches&nbsp;

Don Bradman - 9&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 15 matches&nbsp;

Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma.

Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. Kohli has always enjoyed batting against England and the swashbuckling batsman will be eyeing twin records when he takes the field for the four-Test series, starting February 5. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar holds the record of scoring most runs at home against England and Kohli is 489 runs away from achieving the iconic feat. While Kohli is currently sixth in the list with 843 runs from 9 home matches against England, Gavaskar accumulated 1331 runs in 22 matches. After Gavaskar, Gundappa Viswanath (1022 runs in 17 matches), Sachin Tendulkar (960 runs in 15 matches), Vijay Manjrekar (885 runs in 11 matches) and ML Jaisimha (843 runs in 10 matches) are head of Kohli in the list but the Indian skipper, with his run-scoring record against England, is favourite to topple the greats and take the numero uno spot. ALSO READ: Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee Most runs scored vs England in home Test matches: Sunil Gavaskar - 1331 runs in 22 matches Gundappa Viswanath - 1022 runs in 17 matches Sachin Tendulkar - 960 runs in 15 matches Vijay Manjrekar - 885 runs in 11 matches ML Jaisimha - 843 runs in 10 matches Virat Kohli - 843 runs in 9 matches Cheteshwar Pujara - 839 runs in 9 matches Kohli will also look to break Ricky Ponting's record of scoring most centuries as captain in home Test matches. While Ponting had scored 11 centuries and 3555 runs as captain in home Tests, Kohli has 10 records and 2699 runs. Currently, Kohli is locked with Greg Chappell, Steve Smith with 10 centuries in home Tests as a captain. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL Most centuries as captain in home Test matches: Ricky Ponting - 11 centuries in 39 matches Greg Chappell - 10 centuries in 33 matches Virat Kohli - 10 centuries in 26 matches Steve Smith - 10 centuries in 20 matches Don Bradman - 9 centuries in 15 matches

IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England

Ben Foakes believes he deserved a long run after his spectacular debut in Sri Lanka but has accepted his role as Jos Buttler`s understudy as England`s test wicket-keeper. 
 
Foakes smashed a century on his test debut at Galle and was adjudged man-of-the-series but has played only two more tests, both in West Indies, since that heady tour of Sri Lanka in late 2018. 
 
With Buttler set to return home after the opening test against India, Foakes is expected to don the keeper`s role in the last three matches against Virat Kohli`s men. 
 
"The way I started in Sri Lanka, I did expect to play for longer," Foakes told a video conference from Chennai, which hosts the opening test from Friday. 
 
"I did expect to get more of a run at that stage. I guess it`s tricky to control your emotions... with everything going on then and then having to get it taken away from me because I didn`t get runs in West Indies. 
 
"I know that competition among the keepers is so high that there are going to be times when I`m not playing. And that`s something I just have to accept and be at peace with." 
 
Foakes described Buttler as a "world class player" and hailed the "healthy competition" among England`s wicket-keeping trio, which also includes Jonny Bairstow. 
 
"As a keeper, you never know what`s going to happen... you always have to be on your guard, ready (for opportunities)," Foakes said. 
 
"It`s not the most fun place to be as a back-up keeper but it`s one of those things where you have to always expect them to happen." 
 
The Surrey player accepted however well he might fare in India, Buttler would reclaim the place behind the stumps as and when he is available. 
 
"I would expect it to be the case. Jos is the number one and I`m just seeing these three games as a chance to try and stake my claim and do as well as possible," added Foakes.

Ben Foakes believes he deserved a long run after his spectacular debut in Sri Lanka but has accepted his role as Jos Buttler`s understudy as England`s test wicket-keeper.

Ben Foakes believes he deserved a long run after his spectacular debut in Sri Lanka but has accepted his role as Jos Buttler`s understudy as England`s test wicket-keeper. Foakes smashed a century on his test debut at Galle and was adjudged man-of-the-series but has played only two more tests, both in West Indies, since that heady tour of Sri Lanka in late 2018. With Buttler set to return home after the opening test against India, Foakes is expected to don the keeper`s role in the last three matches against Virat Kohli`s men. "The way I started in Sri Lanka, I did expect to play for longer," Foakes told a video conference from Chennai, which hosts the opening test from Friday. "I did expect to get more of a run at that stage. I guess it`s tricky to control your emotions... with everything going on then and then having to get it taken away from me because I didn`t get runs in West Indies. "I know that competition among the keepers is so high that there are going to be times when I`m not playing. And that`s something I just have to accept and be at peace with." Foakes described Buttler as a "world class player" and hailed the "healthy competition" among England`s wicket-keeping trio, which also includes Jonny Bairstow. "As a keeper, you never know what`s going to happen... you always have to be on your guard, ready (for opportunities)," Foakes said. "It`s not the most fun place to be as a back-up keeper but it`s one of those things where you have to always expect them to happen." The Surrey player accepted however well he might fare in India, Buttler would reclaim the place behind the stumps as and when he is available. "I would expect it to be the case. Jos is the number one and I`m just seeing these three games as a chance to try and stake my claim and do as well as possible," added Foakes.

England's Foakes at peace being Jos Buttler's understudy

English cricketer Jos Buttler acknowledged the 'big challenge' of keeping the wicket on India's low and turning tracks but he is prepared to ace it in his only appearance in the four-test series between the sides next month.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-will-be-buoyed-by-jadejas-absence-says-mark-butcher-360244" hreflang="en">'England will be buoyed by Jadeja's absence', says Mark Butcher</a>

"There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday.

"There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa.

"So you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances."

"And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..."

Buttler, who will only feature in the opening Test in Chennai, was the wicketkeeper during team's Sri Lanka series.&nbsp;

Ben Foakes is likely to take over the gloves from him but Buttler wants to prove his wicketkeeping credentials before heading home.

"I certainly enjoyed being in Sri Lanka and the ball turning past the bat, it's exciting," the 30-year-old said.

"I think wicketkeeping in spinning conditions is a lot of fun."

Buttler went on to praise ECB's policy to rest their multi-format players.&nbsp;

"I think the ECB has been very forward-thinking," Buttler said, praising the board for recognising the challenges of living in bio-bubbles following the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Sadly that does mean certain players resting at certain times and missing games which you never want because you want to play every time and you want your strongest team out every time..." added Buttler.

English cricketer Jos Buttler acknowledged the 'big challenge' of keeping the wicket on India's low and turning tracks but he is prepared to ace it in his only appearance in the four-test series between the sides next month.

English cricketer Jos Buttler acknowledged the 'big challenge' of keeping the wicket on India's low and turning tracks but he is prepared to ace it in his only appearance in the four-test series between the sides next month. ALSO READ: 'England will be buoyed by Jadeja's absence', says Mark Butcher "There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday. "There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa. "So you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances." "And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..." Buttler, who will only feature in the opening Test in Chennai, was the wicketkeeper during team's Sri Lanka series. Ben Foakes is likely to take over the gloves from him but Buttler wants to prove his wicketkeeping credentials before heading home. "I certainly enjoyed being in Sri Lanka and the ball turning past the bat, it's exciting," the 30-year-old said. "I think wicketkeeping in spinning conditions is a lot of fun." Buttler went on to praise ECB's policy to rest their multi-format players. "I think the ECB has been very forward-thinking," Buttler said, praising the board for recognising the challenges of living in bio-bubbles following the COVID-19 pandemic. "Sadly that does mean certain players resting at certain times and missing games which you never want because you want to play every time and you want your strongest team out every time..." added Buttler.

England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches

Former England batsman Mark Butcher on Saturday said that Joe Root and Co. will be glad to know that Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the first two Test matches due to thumb injury as the English squad have struggled while facing left-arm spin in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-let-ourselves-down-de-kock-urges-proteas-batsmen-to-show-more-steel-360140" hreflang="en">'We let ourselves down': De Kock urges Proteas batsmen to show more steel</a>

Despite a clean sweep against Sri Lanka, the English batsmen found it difficult to bat against ner Lasith Embuldeniya who claimed 10 wickets in the second match at Galle.

"Our batters had problems facing Embuldeniya," Butcher, who played 71 tests between 1997-2004, told Saturday's Times of India newspaper.

"England will be buoyed by Jadeja's absence. India possesses a world-class bowling attack but Jadeja adds a different dimension to it."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-batting-coach-feels-pant-will-have-extremely-important-role-in-future-360041" hreflang="en">Indian batting coach feels Pant will have 'extremely important role' in future</a>

Jadeja fractured his thumb while batting in Australia and Kuldeep Yadav's place in the playing XI is not certain as Ashwin will be leading India's spin attack against England.&nbsp;

England are expected to bring some changes in their opening pair after a poor display in Sri Lanka. Butcher feels Zak Crawley to make way for Rory Burns who is back from paternity leave.

"Burns and (Dom) Sibley should be opening in the first test.

"A left-right combination is handy and England will want to stick with them. If the two get off to a good start, the rest of the batsmen too will gain confidence," Butcher said.

Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes have arrived in India after being rested for the series in Sri Lanka. The trio (Archer, Stokes, Burns) have begun training at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after completing their quarantine period.&nbsp;

The full squad will train for the first time on Tuesday afternoon, a team spokesman said.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Former England batsman Mark Butcher on Saturday said that Joe Root and Co. will be glad to know that Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the first two Test matches due to thumb injury as the English squad have struggled while facing left-arm spin in Sri Lanka.

Former England batsman Mark Butcher on Saturday said that Joe Root and Co. will be glad to know that Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the first two Test matches due to thumb injury as the English squad have struggled while facing left-arm spin in Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: 'We let ourselves down': De Kock urges Proteas batsmen to show more steel Despite a clean sweep against Sri Lanka, the English batsmen found it difficult to bat against ner Lasith Embuldeniya who claimed 10 wickets in the second match at Galle. "Our batters had problems facing Embuldeniya," Butcher, who played 71 tests between 1997-2004, told Saturday's Times of India newspaper. "England will be buoyed by Jadeja's absence. India possesses a world-class bowling attack but Jadeja adds a different dimension to it." ALSO READ: Indian batting coach feels Pant will have 'extremely important role' in future Jadeja fractured his thumb while batting in Australia and Kuldeep Yadav's place in the playing XI is not certain as Ashwin will be leading India's spin attack against England. England are expected to bring some changes in their opening pair after a poor display in Sri Lanka. Butcher feels Zak Crawley to make way for Rory Burns who is back from paternity leave. "Burns and (Dom) Sibley should be opening in the first test. "A left-right combination is handy and England will want to stick with them. If the two get off to a good start, the rest of the batsmen too will gain confidence," Butcher said. Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes have arrived in India after being rested for the series in Sri Lanka. The trio (Archer, Stokes, Burns) have begun training at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after completing their quarantine period. The full squad will train for the first time on Tuesday afternoon, a team spokesman said. (Inputs from Reuters)

'England will be buoyed by Jadeja's absence', says Mark Butcher

Five pitches with "decent amount of grass" have been prepared for the first India-England Test that begins at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5. The Indian team management will pick the one it deems suitable for the Test and decide on how much grass will be left on the surface. 
 
The MA Chidambaram Stadium has not hosted competitive cricket since the start of the lockdown in March last year and all eyes are on how the surface would behave. 
 
Incidentally, the last Test match to be played at the venue was between the same teams over four years ago, in December 2016. India racked up 759/7 wickets with Karun Nair scoring an unbeaten 303 and KL Rahul scoring 199. India went on to win the Test -- 1,443 runs were scored and 27 wickets were captured in the match -- by an innings and 75 runs. 
 
The 2008 Test in Chennai saw India successfully chase 387 in the fourth innings and win the Test by six wickets. 
 
The surface for the upcoming first Test -- the second Test will also be played here -- is once again likely to be batting-friendly but it would be slow in nature. 
 
The biggest change for India will be that they would be in a different zone. Australia pitches were bouncy, flat, and good for batting. But the wickets in India, in Chennai for example, will be slow in nature. 
 
"The only difference is that the Chennai wicket has more grass than what it had in the past. Because of Covid-19, there was no cricket and the wicket is going to be fresh with grass," said a source. 
 
"However, grass on the surface doesn`t mean that the ball will seam. It can also turn out to be slow since there has been no cricket for long. Grass is naturally there because there has been no cricket for 9-10 months," he added. 
 
Overall, India have won five of the nine matches while England have won three. One of the matches has ended as a draw. England`s last of the three wins came in 1985. Since then India have won all the three games between them. 
 
India`s last defeat in Chennai came way back in 1999 against Pakistan, a game they lost by a close margin of 12 runs.

Five pitches with "decent amount of grass" have been prepared for the first India-England Test that begins at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.

Five pitches with "decent amount of grass" have been prepared for the first India-England Test that begins at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5. The Indian team management will pick the one it deems suitable for the Test and decide on how much grass will be left on the surface. The MA Chidambaram Stadium has not hosted competitive cricket since the start of the lockdown in March last year and all eyes are on how the surface would behave. Incidentally, the last Test match to be played at the venue was between the same teams over four years ago, in December 2016. India racked up 759/7 wickets with Karun Nair scoring an unbeaten 303 and KL Rahul scoring 199. India went on to win the Test -- 1,443 runs were scored and 27 wickets were captured in the match -- by an innings and 75 runs. The 2008 Test in Chennai saw India successfully chase 387 in the fourth innings and win the Test by six wickets. The surface for the upcoming first Test -- the second Test will also be played here -- is once again likely to be batting-friendly but it would be slow in nature. The biggest change for India will be that they would be in a different zone. Australia pitches were bouncy, flat, and good for batting. But the wickets in India, in Chennai for example, will be slow in nature. "The only difference is that the Chennai wicket has more grass than what it had in the past. Because of Covid-19, there was no cricket and the wicket is going to be fresh with grass," said a source. "However, grass on the surface doesn`t mean that the ball will seam. It can also turn out to be slow since there has been no cricket for long. Grass is naturally there because there has been no cricket for 9-10 months," he added. Overall, India have won five of the nine matches while England have won three. One of the matches has ended as a draw. England`s last of the three wins came in 1985. Since then India have won all the three games between them. India`s last defeat in Chennai came way back in 1999 against Pakistan, a game they lost by a close margin of 12 runs.

Ind vs Eng: Chennai pitch likely to be slow despite grass

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
📍 Chennai, India<a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@root66</a> and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://t.co/GT06p9Ru4u">pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1354332131103825923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start&nbsp;practising&nbsp;from February 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/NpWLJPIcnn">pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1354321398227849219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-introduces-player-of-the-month-awards-siraj-ashwin-root-in-contention-among-others-359603" hreflang="en">ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others</a>

It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call&nbsp;over crowds&nbsp;on remaining matches&nbsp;will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.&nbsp;

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu. The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble. The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine. 📍 Chennai, India@root66 and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u — England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 27, 2021 × While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start practising from February 2. Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2021 × The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14. ALSO READ: ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call over crowds on remaining matches will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.

IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that&nbsp;Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.&nbsp;

Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5.&nbsp;

"Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed.

"It's&nbsp;not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the&nbsp;captain's&nbsp;role is&nbsp;what's&nbsp;more important. So&nbsp;far,&nbsp;I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give&nbsp;these kinds of results&nbsp;for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests.&nbsp;

Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-can-break-sachin-tendulkars-all-time-record-feels-geoffrey-boycott-359452" hreflang="en">Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott</a>

"Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have always backed each&nbsp;other's&nbsp;game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about&nbsp;opposition's&nbsp;bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot."&nbsp;

And how does&nbsp;Rahane&nbsp;find Kohli as a captain?&nbsp;

"Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13&nbsp;short&nbsp;of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder.&nbsp;

While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players.&nbsp;

"With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series,&nbsp;it's&nbsp;always a collective effort and not because of singular&nbsp;man's&nbsp;contribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's&nbsp;your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required. Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5. "Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview. For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed. "It's not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the captain's role is what's more important. So far, I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give these kinds of results for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests. Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect. ALSO READ:Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott "Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said. "We have always backed each other's game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about opposition's bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot." And how does Rahane find Kohli as a captain? "Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13 short of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder. While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players. "With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series, it's always a collective effort and not because of singular man's contribution. "It's your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer. (With PTI inputs)

Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series

Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen was not pleased by England's possible XI for their upcoming Test series and accused them of 'disrespecting' the Indian side who are set to host the Britons for a four-match series starting from February 5.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-decided-that-we-jadeja-reveals-dressing-room-talks-after-adelaide-loss-359006">'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss</a>

England's top-order batsmen have failed to perform well against Sri Lanka in the on-going series and have been tested by the spinners. Dom Sibley and Zak Crawley have failed to leave an impact in the Test series and have found it difficult to adapt to the subcontinent.&nbsp;

England's batting lineup is purely depended on Jonny Bairstow and skipper Joe Root. But, Bairstow has been given rest for the first two Test matches against the Indian side. With the return of Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer to the squad, Stuart Broad and James Anderson's spot could be rotated despite prolific run against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Pietersen, however, believes England must pick their strongest team from the get-go if they are to stand any chance against a side which has just emerged victorious from their historic series against Australia.&nbsp;

"Big debate on whether England have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test," he wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

"Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Australia."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India. 
PICK THEM! 
 
Then they go to IPL &amp; earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! 
 
They can have a break after that!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1353247100507721728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"It’s disrespectful to England fans and also to @BCCI to NOT play your best team. The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India.&nbsp;

"PICK THEM! Then they go to IPL &amp; earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! They can have a break after that!&nbsp;

"Bairstow has to play! Broad/Anderson have to play!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Big debate on whether ENG have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test. 
Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Aus. 
It’s disrespectful to ENG fans &amp; also <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> to NOT play your best team. 
 
Bairstow has to play! 
Broad/Anderson have to play!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1353245716295147520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen was not pleased by England's possible XI for their upcoming Test series and accused them of 'disrespecting' the Indian side who are set to host the Britons for a four-match series starting from February 5.

Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen was not pleased by England's possible XI for their upcoming Test series and accused them of 'disrespecting' the Indian side who are set to host the Britons for a four-match series starting from February 5. ALSO READ: 'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss England's top-order batsmen have failed to perform well against Sri Lanka in the on-going series and have been tested by the spinners. Dom Sibley and Zak Crawley have failed to leave an impact in the Test series and have found it difficult to adapt to the subcontinent. England's batting lineup is purely depended on Jonny Bairstow and skipper Joe Root. But, Bairstow has been given rest for the first two Test matches against the Indian side. With the return of Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer to the squad, Stuart Broad and James Anderson's spot could be rotated despite prolific run against Sri Lanka. Pietersen, however, believes England must pick their strongest team from the get-go if they are to stand any chance against a side which has just emerged victorious from their historic series against Australia. "Big debate on whether England have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test," he wrote on Twitter. "Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Australia." The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India. PICK THEM! Then they go to IPL & earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! They can have a break after that! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 24, 2021 × "It’s disrespectful to England fans and also to @BCCI to NOT play your best team. The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India. "PICK THEM! Then they go to IPL & earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! They can have a break after that! "Bairstow has to play! Broad/Anderson have to play!" Big debate on whether ENG have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test. Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Aus. It’s disrespectful to ENG fans & also @BCCI to NOT play your best team. Bairstow has to play! Broad/Anderson have to play! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 24, 2021 ×

'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India

Former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels India should rope in wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England after his brave knock in the Gabba Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-decided-that-we-jadeja-reveals-dressing-room-talks-after-adelaide-loss-359006">'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss</a>

The southpaw was not included in India's squad for the limited-overs series against Australia after a poor performance in the IPL 2020. In his new video on YouTube, a fan asked the Aussie whether India should consider including Pant in the limited-overs series against England which begins next month. The former Australian cricketer was quick to give an affirmative and suggested that Shreyas Iyer or Sanju Samson can be replaced with Pant.

"I would be putting him there right now because he has got the confidence and the belief. He has proven himself with two match-winning knocks in this Test series," Hogg said.

"You can't get better than that playing for India on Australian soil. Get him in there. I would put him in place of Iyer in the ODI team. Keep your all-round options there for batting and bowling depth. In the T20Is, he can be there for either Iyer or Sanju Samson," he added.

"He is hard to bowl to because he plays a variety of shots that are different to any other batsman. I love him, he is a great entertainer. Get him in there," Hogg further said.

India are set to host England for four Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The first Test will kick off from February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels India should rope in wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England after his brave knock in the Gabba Test.

Former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels India should rope in wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England after his brave knock in the Gabba Test. ALSO READ: 'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss The southpaw was not included in India's squad for the limited-overs series against Australia after a poor performance in the IPL 2020. In his new video on YouTube, a fan asked the Aussie whether India should consider including Pant in the limited-overs series against England which begins next month. The former Australian cricketer was quick to give an affirmative and suggested that Shreyas Iyer or Sanju Samson can be replaced with Pant. "I would be putting him there right now because he has got the confidence and the belief. He has proven himself with two match-winning knocks in this Test series," Hogg said. "You can't get better than that playing for India on Australian soil. Get him in there. I would put him in place of Iyer in the ODI team. Keep your all-round options there for batting and bowling depth. In the T20Is, he can be there for either Iyer or Sanju Samson," he added. "He is hard to bowl to because he plays a variety of shots that are different to any other batsman. I love him, he is a great entertainer. Get him in there," Hogg further said. India are set to host England for four Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The first Test will kick off from February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series

After a historic win against Australia, Team India are all set to lock horns with England for a four-match Test series that are set to begin on February 5.&nbsp;

India, who are currently atop of World Test Championship (WTC) table, will need some crucial points against England to ensure a berth in the finals. England, on the other hand, are fourth in the table with 65.2 percentage points.&nbsp;

Ben Stokes, who is considered as England's main man to look out for, posted a photo of himself travelling on a plane, heading to India for the Test series. The all-rounder is considered to be one of the best in the format for his prolific stats with both bat and ball.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
See you soon India ✈️🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/TrGHG3iuy3">pic.twitter.com/TrGHG3iuy3</a>
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1353023670063689730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier, former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes.&nbsp;

"England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'.

"We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked.

According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series.

He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home.&nbsp;

"Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'.

"We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting as we had with Kevin Pietersen."

After a historic win against Australia, Team India are all set to lock horns with England for a four-match Test series that are set to begin on February 5. India, who are currently atop of World Test Championship (WTC) table, will need some crucial points against England to ensure a berth in the finals.

After a historic win against Australia, Team India are all set to lock horns with England for a four-match Test series that are set to begin on February 5. India, who are currently atop of World Test Championship (WTC) table, will need some crucial points against England to ensure a berth in the finals. England, on the other hand, are fourth in the table with 65.2 percentage points. Ben Stokes, who is considered as England's main man to look out for, posted a photo of himself travelling on a plane, heading to India for the Test series. The all-rounder is considered to be one of the best in the format for his prolific stats with both bat and ball. See you soon India ✈️🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/TrGHG3iuy3 — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) January 23, 2021 × Earlier, former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes. "England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'. "We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked. According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series. He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home. "Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'. "We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting as we had with Kevin Pietersen."

'See you': Ben Stokes heads to India for crucial Test series against Virat and Co.

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will visit India after the completion of their ongoing two-match Test series in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England have had a confidence booster after comfortably beating Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;on a high after their historic Test series triumph against Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-auction-likely-on-february-18-bcci-official-358588" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 auction likely on February 18: BCCI official</a>

The Test series will also witness the pink-ball Test (third Test) in the newly-built Sardar Patel Stadium as the venue in Ahmedabad gears up to host its maiden international fixture.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour will start with four Test matches, followed by five T20Is before ending it with a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;The squads for the first two Tests have been announced by both England and India.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beating-india-in-india-is-a-far-higher-thing-to-strive-former-england-spinner-graeme-swann-358551" hreflang="en">'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3b9c69a1-6ce8-49e3-b23f-3b32663a57b2}{156}" paraid="1512110052" >India vs England: Squads&nbsp;</h2>

Team India squad for first two Tests: India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;

England squad for first two Tests: Joe Root (C), Jofra Archer, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris&nbsp;Woakes.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d7dbb78-3ba2-4b05-9024-3619d0734c3e}{45}" paraid="1583728904" >India vs England: Telecast and Live Streaming Details</h2>

The India-England series will be live on various channels of Star Sports. The live streaming of matches will be available on Hotstar.

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket.

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket. England will visit India after the completion of their ongoing two-match Test series in Sri Lanka. While England have had a confidence booster after comfortably beating Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, India are on a high after their historic Test series triumph against Australia. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 auction likely on February 18: BCCI official The Test series will also witness the pink-ball Test (third Test) in the newly-built Sardar Patel Stadium as the venue in Ahmedabad gears up to host its maiden international fixture. The gruelling tour will start with four Test matches, followed by five T20Is before ending it with a three-match ODI series. The squads for the first two Tests have been announced by both England and India. ALSO READ: 'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann India vs England: Squads Team India squad for first two Tests: India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur England squad for first two Tests: Joe Root (C), Jofra Archer, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes. India vs England: Telecast and Live Streaming Details The India-England series will be live on various channels of Star Sports. The live streaming of matches will be available on Hotstar. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

India vs England: Full schedule, squads, telecast - All you need to know

India scripted history after winning the Gabba Test and breaching Australia's fortress. The visitors ended Australia's 30-year long streak in Brisbane and also sealed the series (2-1) going on top of the WTC table.&nbsp;

Former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes.&nbsp;

"England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'.

Joe Root and Co. will be touring to India for a four-match Test series, beginning on February 5, followed by five T20 Internationals and three ODIs.

"We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked.

According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series.

He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home.&nbsp;

"Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'.

"We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting like we had with Kevin Pietersen."

Swann feels former captain Pietersen changed the way England played against spin.

"He was ultra-aggressive. Let's face it KP was a brilliant player and he batted unbelievably well there.

"We haven't done it since, we haven't learnt from how Kev batted on that trip and haven't gone on and used that as the blueprint."

(Inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

India scripted history after winning the Gabba Test and breaching Australia's fortress. The visitors ended Australia's 30-year long streak in Brisbane and also sealed the series (2-1) going on top of the WTC table.

India scripted history after winning the Gabba Test and breaching Australia's fortress. The visitors ended Australia's 30-year long streak in Brisbane and also sealed the series (2-1) going on top of the WTC table. Former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes. "England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'. Joe Root and Co. will be touring to India for a four-match Test series, beginning on February 5, followed by five T20 Internationals and three ODIs. "We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked. According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series. He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home. "Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'. "We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting like we had with Kevin Pietersen." Swann feels former captain Pietersen changed the way England played against spin. "He was ultra-aggressive. Let's face it KP was a brilliant player and he batted unbelievably well there. "We haven't done it since, we haven't learnt from how Kev batted on that trip and haven't gone on and used that as the blueprint." (Inputs from PTI)

'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5&nbsp;at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

England will be playing four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what will be a gruelling tour of India. The likes of Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer return to the squad after being rested for their tour to Sri Lanka.

England Men’s Test Squad:

Joe Root&nbsp;(Yorkshire) (captain),&nbsp;Jofra Archer&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Moeen Ali&nbsp;(Worcestershire),&nbsp;James Anderson&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Dom Bess&nbsp;(Yorkshire),&nbsp;Stuart Broad&nbsp;(Nottinghamshire),&nbsp;Rory Burns&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Jos Buttler&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Zak Crawley&nbsp;(Kent),&nbsp;Ben Foakes&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Dan Lawrence&nbsp;(Essex),&nbsp;Jack Leach&nbsp;(Somerset),&nbsp;Dom Sibley&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;(Durham),&nbsp;Olly Stone&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Chris Woakes&nbsp;(Warwickshire).

Reserves:

James Bracey&nbsp;(Gloucestershire),&nbsp;Mason Crane&nbsp;(Hampshire),&nbsp;Saqib Mahmood&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Matthew Parkinson&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Ollie Robinson&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Amar Virdi&nbsp;(Surrey).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-ben-stokes-to-give-england-huge-boost-vs-india-england-captain-joe-root-358320" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root</a>

Jofra Archer, Rory Burns and Ben Stokes return to the squad. Archer and Stokes were rested for the Sri Lanka series and Burns was at home for the birth of his first child.

Surrey’s Ollie Pope will travel to India and will be added to the squad when passed fit. Pope is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in September during the Test series against Pakistan.

The National Selectors have provided a block of rest for Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Curran and Mark Wood. The three players, who are currently in Sri Lanka, will miss the first and second Tests in India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inside-team-room-wear-that-36-all-out-like-a-badge-r-sridhar-recalls-raviship-and-more-358337" hreflang="en">Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more</a>

This is consistent with the selection policy of finding a block of rest for all multi-format players at some point during post-Christmas winter schedule.

With Archer and Stokes returning, and subject to fitness of the rest of the squad, Somerset’s Craig Overton will return home after the Sri Lanka series.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England Tour of India: Full Schedule</h2>

Tests

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

T20Is

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

ODIs

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. England will be playing four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what will be a gruelling tour of India. The likes of Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer return to the squad after being rested for their tour to Sri Lanka. England Men’s Test Squad: Joe Root (Yorkshire) (captain), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), James Anderson (Lancashire), Dom Bess (Yorkshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Ben Foakes (Surrey), Dan Lawrence (Essex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Olly Stone (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire). Reserves: James Bracey (Gloucestershire), Mason Crane (Hampshire), Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Matthew Parkinson (Lancashire), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Amar Virdi (Surrey). ALSO READ: Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root Jofra Archer, Rory Burns and Ben Stokes return to the squad. Archer and Stokes were rested for the Sri Lanka series and Burns was at home for the birth of his first child. Surrey’s Ollie Pope will travel to India and will be added to the squad when passed fit. Pope is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in September during the Test series against Pakistan. The National Selectors have provided a block of rest for Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Curran and Mark Wood. The three players, who are currently in Sri Lanka, will miss the first and second Tests in India. ALSO READ: Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more This is consistent with the selection policy of finding a block of rest for all multi-format players at some point during post-Christmas winter schedule. With Archer and Stokes returning, and subject to fitness of the rest of the squad, Somerset’s Craig Overton will return home after the Sri Lanka series. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

England announce squad for first 2 Tests vs India as Archer, Stokes return

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a&nbsp;"major boost”.&nbsp;

Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who&nbsp;have been boosted by their historic Test&nbsp;series&nbsp;win&nbsp;against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-reveals-rahul-dravids-message-after-sydney-heroics-358303" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics</a>

"I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket,"&nbsp;Root&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

"We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side.&nbsp;

"And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-england-test-series-358289" hreflang="en">India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series</a>

"You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here."&nbsp;&nbsp;

England&nbsp;are set to&nbsp;travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors&nbsp;will also play five T20I&nbsp;matches and three&nbsp;ODIs.&nbsp;

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”.

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”. Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic. England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who have been boosted by their historic Test series win against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics "I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket," Root told reporters. "We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side. "And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here." Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test. ALSO READ: India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series "You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root. "We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here." England are set to travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors will also play five T20I matches and three ODIs.

Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to&nbsp;post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh&nbsp;aitihaasik&nbsp;jeet ka&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaye&nbsp;kyuki&nbsp;yeh&nbsp;sabhi&nbsp;baadhao&nbsp;ke&nbsp;khilaap&nbsp;hasil&nbsp;hui&nbsp;hai&nbsp;. LEKIN, ASLI TEAM&nbsp;toh&nbsp;kuch&nbsp;hafto&nbsp;baad&nbsp;a&nbsp;rahi&nbsp;hai&nbsp;jisse&nbsp;aapko&nbsp;harana&nbsp;hoga&nbsp;apne&nbsp;ghar&nbsp;mein&nbsp;.&nbsp;Satark&nbsp;rahe, 2&nbsp;saptaah&nbsp;mein&nbsp;bahut&nbsp;adhik&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaane&nbsp;se&nbsp;saavadhaan&nbsp;rahen&nbsp;(This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-rishabh-pant-joe-root-touch-new-high-after-epic-shows-357905" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai 
 
LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . 
 
Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1351501549013504001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill,&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;

While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their&nbsp;full-fledged tour of India starting from February.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a76e159a-5fce-4c16-8799-e80ec05df82e}{198}" paraid="346901802" >England tour of India – Full Schedule:&nbsp;</h2>

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;Test:&nbsp;February&nbsp;5-9 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;Test: February 13-17 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;T20I: March 14 in&nbsp;Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 5th&nbsp;T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;ODI: March 2 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;ODI: March 26 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;ODI: March 28 in Pune&nbsp;

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series. The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai . LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.” ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 19, 2021 × India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match. While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their full-fledged tour of India starting from February. England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' England tour of India – Full Schedule: India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune

Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four&nbsp;bowlers waiting in the ranks. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-at-the-gabba-india-defeat-australia-by-3-wickets-seal-series-2-1-357669" hreflang="en">History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India squad for first two Tests vs England:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal<o:p></o:p>

Middle-order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test)<o:p></o:p>

Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur<o:p></o:p>

Spinners: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel<o:p></o:p>

Standbys: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar<o:p></o:p>

Net bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series. Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four bowlers waiting in the ranks. The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma. ALSO READ: History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1 India squad for first two Tests vs England: Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal Middle-order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test) Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur Spinners: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel Standbys: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar Net bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England

Ahmedabad's Motera Stadium, the largest cricket stadium in the world, will be the day-night Test between India and England on February 24. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah on Thursday confirmed the news.

Ahmedabad's Motera Stadium, the largest cricket stadium in the world, will be the day-night Test between India and England on February 24. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah on Thursday confirmed the news. He also said that the four-match Test series will commence from February 7. Also read: 'His captaincy is fabulous': Australian legend Ian Chappell on Ajinkya Rahane “The first Test will start from February 7 and the day-night Test will be played in Ahmedabad at the Motera Stadium from February 24,” said Shah while inaugurating Gujarat Cricket Association’s indoor academy for young cricketers. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly earlier said that India will host England for a full-fledged tour of four Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is. Shah has now also revealed that the five T20Is will also be held in Ahmedabad. “5 T20I matches will be played in Ahmedabad’s Motera stadium,” he said. Five T20I against England will help Virat and Co. prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup which is set to be played in India in October-November. The Indian team is currently in Australia where they recently won the three-match T20I series. Now the side would be in action in the four-match Test series, starting from December 17 in Adelaide. (Inputs from ANI)

Ahmedabad's Motera Stadium to host India vs England Test match, confirms Jay Shah

India will host England for four Tests in early 2021 in what could become the key clashes in deciding who reaches the world Test championship final.

Sourav Ganguly, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, announced the series, planned for February-March, late Tuesday, but warned the coronavirus pandemic could still cause problems.

Australia lead the nine-nation inaugural world Test championship league with India second and England third. The top two will go into the final next year at Lord's.

India host England shortly after their four-Test series in Australia and both showdowns will be key in deciding the final. England had originally been scheduled to play five Tests in India.

England will play four Tests, three one-day internationals and five T20s, Ganguly said, although he said the BCCI would "have to keep assessing the situation" because of the coronavirus pandemic.

"A lot of people are talking about the second Covid wave," he said. "We're already hearing of cases being on the rise again in Mumbai and Delhi, so we have to be careful and make sure everything is in order."

Ganguly revealed that he has undergone 22 Covid-19 Tests in the past four-and-a-half months because of his travel schedule. All had been negative, he said.

The coronavirus has claimed more than 100,000 lives in India, which is the second worst hit nation after the United States.

England's original limited-overs tour to India in September-October and the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November were both casualties of the pandemic.

India will host England for four Tests in early 2021 in what could become the key clashes in deciding who reaches the world Test championship final. Sourav Ganguly, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, announced the series, planned for February-March, late Tuesday, but warned the coronavirus pandemic could still cause problems.

India will host England for four Tests in early 2021 in what could become the key clashes in deciding who reaches the world Test championship final. Sourav Ganguly, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, announced the series, planned for February-March, late Tuesday, but warned the coronavirus pandemic could still cause problems. Australia lead the nine-nation inaugural world Test championship league with India second and England third. The top two will go into the final next year at Lord's. India host England shortly after their four-Test series in Australia and both showdowns will be key in deciding the final. England had originally been scheduled to play five Tests in India. England will play four Tests, three one-day internationals and five T20s, Ganguly said, although he said the BCCI would "have to keep assessing the situation" because of the coronavirus pandemic. "A lot of people are talking about the second Covid wave," he said. "We're already hearing of cases being on the rise again in Mumbai and Delhi, so we have to be careful and make sure everything is in order." Ganguly revealed that he has undergone 22 Covid-19 Tests in the past four-and-a-half months because of his travel schedule. All had been negative, he said. The coronavirus has claimed more than 100,000 lives in India, which is the second worst hit nation after the United States. England's original limited-overs tour to India in September-October and the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November were both casualties of the pandemic.

England to play four Tests in India: Ganguly

ind-vs-eng

Ind Vs Eng, News on Ind Vs Eng, stories on Ind Vs Eng, articles on Ind Vs Eng, Ind Vs Eng stories at Wion, Ind Vs Eng news, Ind Vs Eng latest news

ind vs-eng

'He is fantastic player': Joe Root names this Indian batsman who will be 'huge wicket' for team

Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender

Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India

Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior

India vs England: Gautam Gambhir predicts scoreline of Test series

England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative

IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England

England's Foakes at peace being Jos Buttler's understudy

England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches

'England will be buoyed by Jadeja's absence', says Mark Butcher

Ind vs Eng: Chennai pitch likely to be slow despite grass

IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India

Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series

Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series

'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India

'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series

'See you': Ben Stokes heads to India for crucial Test series against Virat and Co.

India vs England: Full schedule, squads, telecast - All you need to know

'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann

England announce squad for first 2 Tests vs India as Archer, Stokes return

Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root

Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series

Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England

Ahmedabad's Motera Stadium to host India vs England Test match, confirms Jay Shah