Virat Kohli hasn't been at his usual best for quite sometime. His last international ton came in November 2019 and, since then, the 32-year-old has had some reasonable success in white-ball cricket but consistency, or a big score, has eluded him. On the other hand, Kohli averaged only 19.33 in Tests in 2020 and currently averages 27.15 in the ongoing calendar year.

In India's tour of United Kingdom so far, the Indian captain has managed to surpass the 50-run mark only once, including the WTC final. His scores in the England Tests are: 0, DNB, 42, 20, 7, 55. Thus, former England captain Nasser Hussain predicted tough&nbsp;times are ahead of the Indian captain, who remains unsure of his off-stump and is having problems against the deliveries pitched on the fourth-fifth stump-line.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/high-class-bowling-not-to-get-any-easier-for-virat-kohli-nasser-hussain-makes-big-statement-on-indian-skippers-barren-run-409388">High-class bowling not to get any easier for Virat Kohli: Nasser Hussain makes big statement on Indian skipper's barren run</a>

A repeat of 2014?

Sanjay Manjrekar, India's former cricketer-turned-commentator, also opined on Kohli's form and made a bold claim on his struggles in England. In his column for Hindustan Times, he wrote, "Virat currently is grappling with his issue outside off, 2014 is coming back to haunt Virat and if he does not leave balls as he did in 2018, he is likely to be troubled the whole series. Or, he could not be so obsessed with getting onto the front foot no matter what and make his life easier and the bowlers’ more difficult. His front foot play is just making him graft more and even average bowlers who bowl around good length are making the great batter scavenge for runs."

Kohli-led India, meanwhile, will be desperate to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match Test series versus England when the fourth and penultimate Test begins from September 2 at Kennington Oval, London. After the first Test was drawn, India won the Lord's Test by 151 runs before losing the third Test by an innings and 76 runs to Joe Root-led hosts.

Virat Kohli hasn't been at his usual best for quite sometime. His last international ton came in November 2019 and, since then, the 32-year-old has had some reasonable success in white-ball cricket but consistency, or a big score, has eluded him.

Virat Kohli hasn't been at his usual best for quite sometime. His last international ton came in November 2019 and, since then, the 32-year-old has had some reasonable success in white-ball cricket but consistency, or a big score, has eluded him. On the other hand, Kohli averaged only 19.33 in Tests in 2020 and currently averages 27.15 in the ongoing calendar year. In India's tour of United Kingdom so far, the Indian captain has managed to surpass the 50-run mark only once, including the WTC final. His scores in the England Tests are: 0, DNB, 42, 20, 7, 55. Thus, former England captain Nasser Hussain predicted tough times are ahead of the Indian captain, who remains unsure of his off-stump and is having problems against the deliveries pitched on the fourth-fifth stump-line. ALSO READ | High-class bowling not to get any easier for Virat Kohli: Nasser Hussain makes big statement on Indian skipper's barren run A repeat of 2014? Sanjay Manjrekar, India's former cricketer-turned-commentator, also opined on Kohli's form and made a bold claim on his struggles in England. In his column for Hindustan Times, he wrote, "Virat currently is grappling with his issue outside off, 2014 is coming back to haunt Virat and if he does not leave balls as he did in 2018, he is likely to be troubled the whole series. Or, he could not be so obsessed with getting onto the front foot no matter what and make his life easier and the bowlers’ more difficult. His front foot play is just making him graft more and even average bowlers who bowl around good length are making the great batter scavenge for runs." Kohli-led India, meanwhile, will be desperate to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match Test series versus England when the fourth and penultimate Test begins from September 2 at Kennington Oval, London. After the first Test was drawn, India won the Lord's Test by 151 runs before losing the third Test by an innings and 76 runs to Joe Root-led hosts.

Sanjay Manjrekar sees no end to Virat Kohli's struggles in England, makes bold claim on Indian skipper's form

Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test between India and England, at Kennington Oval, London from September 2, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja won hearts with his gesture for England captain Michael Vaughan. Jadeja shared his Test jersey with the former English skipper for a charity cause.

Jadeja's jersey was signed by all the Indian players and was sent to Vaughan. The Englishman, on the other hand, shared the jersey on his official Instagram handle and lauded the superstar cricketer.

Vaughan took to his Instagram story to share a picture of Jadeja's jersey, thanked the all-rounder for his wonderful gesture and wrote, "Cheers @ravindra.jadeja, will make lots of money for a charity”.

<img alt="Michael Vaughan receives Ravindra Jadeja's Test jersey for charity" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29797db7-7419-474c-b031-098b7408d4db" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jadeja_jersey.jpg" />

Talking about the Indian all-rounder, the 32-year-old Jadeja had gone to the hospital following India's heavy defeat to England in the third Test on Saturday (August 28), for precautionary scans after concerns over knee injury. No official update has come regarding the spin-bowling all-rounder's injury so far.

So far, Jadeja has featured in all three Tests versus England. While the left-hander has looked in decent touch with the bat, adding vital runs for India lower down the order, the spinner has managed only two wickets in three Tests.

It will be interesting to see if the Virat Kohli-led Team India retain him in the playing XI for the fourth and penultimate Test or go ahead with two spinners, in R Ashwin and Jadeja. India can also field Shardul Thakur or Hanuma Vihari incase Jadeja is ruled out.

Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test between India and England, at Kennington Oval, London from September 2, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja won hearts with his gesture for England captain Michael Vaughan.

Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test between India and England, at Kennington Oval, London from September 2, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja won hearts with his gesture for England captain Michael Vaughan. Jadeja shared his Test jersey with the former English skipper for a charity cause. Jadeja's jersey was signed by all the Indian players and was sent to Vaughan. The Englishman, on the other hand, shared the jersey on his official Instagram handle and lauded the superstar cricketer. Vaughan took to his Instagram story to share a picture of Jadeja's jersey, thanked the all-rounder for his wonderful gesture and wrote, "Cheers @ravindra.jadeja, will make lots of money for a charity”. Talking about the Indian all-rounder, the 32-year-old Jadeja had gone to the hospital following India's heavy defeat to England in the third Test on Saturday (August 28), for precautionary scans after concerns over knee injury. No official update has come regarding the spin-bowling all-rounder's injury so far. So far, Jadeja has featured in all three Tests versus England. While the left-hander has looked in decent touch with the bat, adding vital runs for India lower down the order, the spinner has managed only two wickets in three Tests. It will be interesting to see if the Virat Kohli-led Team India retain him in the playing XI for the fourth and penultimate Test or go ahead with two spinners, in R Ashwin and Jadeja. India can also field Shardul Thakur or Hanuma Vihari incase Jadeja is ruled out.

Ravindra Jadeja wins hearts! All-rounder gifts his Test jersey signed by Team India players to Michael Vaughan for charity

Virat Kohli's form has been a hot topic of debate in recent days. While Kohli slammed a fifty in India's third Test versus England, which they lost by an innings and 76 runs, the 32-year-old didn't look comfortable versus the likes of James Anderson and Ollie Robinson, especially when the English pacers pitched the ball in the fourth-fifth stump line.

Kohli's scores, so far, in the ongoing England series are as follows: 0, DNB, 42, 20, 7, 55. Since India went to the United Kingdom, the skipper hasn't been at his very best -- including the WTC final versus New Zealand. On the other hand, his last international ton came in November, 2019. Thus, his form is a cause of concern for the team management ahead of India's fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday).

Hence, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan opined on Kohli's form and shared his take on what is causing his downfall. "I feel more than the preparation, Virat Kohli looking to dominate is forcing him to play deliveries outside off-stump. It is just that small thing. More than technical, Virat Kohli’s aggressive thinking is causing him problems.” Pathan said during an interaction on Aakash Chopra’s YouTube channel.

India's former batting coach, Sanjay Bangar said, "The bottom line as far as I am concerned is that Virat Kohli has not shown the patience that England bowlers have shown against him. That was the only difference."

For India to take a 2-1 lead in the series, Kohli's form will remain crucial in the remaining two matches. On the other hand, the skipper will be eager to lead from the front and end the series on a high.

Virat Kohli's form has been a hot topic of debate in recent days. While Kohli slammed a fifty in India's third Test versus England, which they lost by an innings and 76 runs, the 32-year-old didn't look comfortable versus the likes of James Anderson and Ollie Robinson, especially when the English pacers pitched the ball in the fourth-fifth stump line.

Virat Kohli's form has been a hot topic of debate in recent days. While Kohli slammed a fifty in India's third Test versus England, which they lost by an innings and 76 runs, the 32-year-old didn't look comfortable versus the likes of James Anderson and Ollie Robinson, especially when the English pacers pitched the ball in the fourth-fifth stump line. Kohli's scores, so far, in the ongoing England series are as follows: 0, DNB, 42, 20, 7, 55. Since India went to the United Kingdom, the skipper hasn't been at his very best -- including the WTC final versus New Zealand. On the other hand, his last international ton came in November, 2019. Thus, his form is a cause of concern for the team management ahead of India's fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday). Hence, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan opined on Kohli's form and shared his take on what is causing his downfall. "I feel more than the preparation, Virat Kohli looking to dominate is forcing him to play deliveries outside off-stump. It is just that small thing. More than technical, Virat Kohli’s aggressive thinking is causing him problems.” Pathan said during an interaction on Aakash Chopra’s YouTube channel. India's former batting coach, Sanjay Bangar said, "The bottom line as far as I am concerned is that Virat Kohli has not shown the patience that England bowlers have shown against him. That was the only difference." For India to take a 2-1 lead in the series, Kohli's form will remain crucial in the remaining two matches. On the other hand, the skipper will be eager to lead from the front and end the series on a high.

Virat Kohli's aggressive thinking is causing him problems: Irfan Pathan shares his take on Indian skipper's struggles

India and England were involved in a high-voltage second Test, at Lord's, which ended with Virat Kohli-led India coming on top of hosts by a whopping 151-run margin to go 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in England and Wales. While the match had several memorable moments, Jasprit Bumrah's relentless fast-bowling spell -- comprising a barrage of bouncers -- to England's James Anderson during the home side's first innings became a huge talking point.&nbsp;

Following Bumrah's bouncers to Anderson, who was caught off guard by the Indian speedster's extra pace and bounce, things got heated up between the two sides. After England managed a slender 27-run lead over India and the fiery face-off between Bumrah-Anderson ended on Day 3, Joe Root-led England tried to come hard on Bumrah but paid the price as it Kohli &amp; Co. replied with much intent to script a historic comeback on the final day and win the Test by 151 runs.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, as per a report in The Telegraph, it has been claimed that things turned ugly between India and England following the Bumrah-Anderson face-off on Day 3 of the Lord's Test.&nbsp;

India and England&nbsp;players were reportedly involved in a 'bust-up' in the Lord's long room after the conclusion of Day 3's play during the second Test, which ended on August 16. There were 'tense scenes in the Lord's pavilion at the end of the third day's play. The report referred to the incident as a 'bust-up' and claimed that the players from both camps&nbsp;were seen arguing on their way to their dressing rooms and the confrontation continued even in the Lord's long room.

"Confrontations in the Lord's Long Room - the hallowed inner sanctum of English cricket - are almost unheard of," stated the report from The Telegraph', also claiming that the two captains -- Kohli and Root -- were also believed to be involved in a heated exchange.

Following Bumrah-Anderson face-off, India came out to bat in their second essay, trailing England by 27 runs. The hosts had their noise ahead on the final day as India were reduced to 209-8, leading by 182 runs, when Bumrah-Mohammed Shami battled the short-ball ploy versus the English pacers and set-up a daunting 272-run target for the hosts.

England fell like nine pins, in response,&nbsp;to fold for 120 and lose the Test by 151 runs. The third Test commences at Headingley, Leeds from August 25 (Wednesday).

India and England were involved in a high-voltage second Test, at Lord's, which ended with Virat Kohli-led India coming on top of hosts by a whopping 151-run margin to go 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in England and Wales.

India and England were involved in a high-voltage second Test, at Lord's, which ended with Virat Kohli-led India coming on top of hosts by a whopping 151-run margin to go 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in England and Wales. While the match had several memorable moments, Jasprit Bumrah's relentless fast-bowling spell -- comprising a barrage of bouncers -- to England's James Anderson during the home side's first innings became a huge talking point. Following Bumrah's bouncers to Anderson, who was caught off guard by the Indian speedster's extra pace and bounce, things got heated up between the two sides. After England managed a slender 27-run lead over India and the fiery face-off between Bumrah-Anderson ended on Day 3, Joe Root-led England tried to come hard on Bumrah but paid the price as it Kohli & Co. replied with much intent to script a historic comeback on the final day and win the Test by 151 runs. Nonetheless, as per a report in The Telegraph, it has been claimed that things turned ugly between India and England following the Bumrah-Anderson face-off on Day 3 of the Lord's Test. India and England players were reportedly involved in a 'bust-up' in the Lord's long room after the conclusion of Day 3's play during the second Test, which ended on August 16. There were 'tense scenes in the Lord's pavilion at the end of the third day's play. The report referred to the incident as a 'bust-up' and claimed that the players from both camps were seen arguing on their way to their dressing rooms and the confrontation continued even in the Lord's long room. "Confrontations in the Lord's Long Room - the hallowed inner sanctum of English cricket - are almost unheard of," stated the report from The Telegraph', also claiming that the two captains -- Kohli and Root -- were also believed to be involved in a heated exchange. Following Bumrah-Anderson face-off, India came out to bat in their second essay, trailing England by 27 runs. The hosts had their noise ahead on the final day as India were reduced to 209-8, leading by 182 runs, when Bumrah-Mohammed Shami battled the short-ball ploy versus the English pacers and set-up a daunting 272-run target for the hosts. England fell like nine pins, in response, to fold for 120 and lose the Test by 151 runs. The third Test commences at Headingley, Leeds from August 25 (Wednesday).

India, England players involved in 'bust-up' in Lord's long room following Jasprit Bumrah's bouncer barrage to James Anderson - Report

The second Test between India and England lived upto expectations as Virat Kohli-led Team India achieved an impressive 151-run win over hosts England and went 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in the United Kingdom. While it was a topsy-turvy battle between the two sides, the visitors stunned Joe Root &amp; Co. on the final day courtesy a team effort.

Being asked to bat first, India rode on KL Rahul's sublime 129 and valuable knocks from Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja and skipper Virat Kohli to post 364 all-out. In reply, England managed a slender 27-run lead courtesy Root's 180 not out. However, Jasprit Bumrah's relentless fast-bowling spell to England's veteran pacer James Anderson became a huge talking point before England ended their first innings.

Bumrah bowled his heart out to Anderson, troubling him with extra pace and bounce as his barrage of bouncers left the experienced speedster completely rattled. It became a huge turning point in the closely-fought contest as England lost the plot in India's second essay, trying to unsettle Bumrah. Eventually, they were cornered by Kohli-led India, who came all out at the home side and triumphed on the final day.

Ahead of the third Test, at Headingley, Leeds from August 25 (Wednesday), Anderson opened up on how he coped up with Bumrah's aggressive spell.&nbsp;

'Felt like he wasn't trying to get me out'

“I got caught off guard a little bit because all the batters coming in were saying how slow the pitch was. Banged in short; it was really slow. When I came out to bat, Joe said Bumrah was not bowling as quick as he normally does," said Anderson on Tailenders podcast.&nbsp;

“And then, the first ball was 90 miles an hour and on the money, wasn’t it? And it felt like, I haven’t felt like this ever in my career. I felt he wasn’t trying to get me out,” he added.

Stunned by Bumrah's spell, Anderson was fired up when the former came out to bat during India's second innings at Lord's, with Team India reduced to 209-8 with the overall lead being only 182 on Day 5. However, Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's unbeaten 89-run ninth-wicket stand, and Mohammed Siraj's 4-fer during England's run-chase, enabled India's 151-run win at Lord's.

The second Test between India and England lived upto expectations as Virat Kohli-led Team India achieved an impressive 151-run win over hosts England and went 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in the United Kingdom.

The second Test between India and England lived upto expectations as Virat Kohli-led Team India achieved an impressive 151-run win over hosts England and went 1-0 up in the five-match series, being held in the United Kingdom. While it was a topsy-turvy battle between the two sides, the visitors stunned Joe Root & Co. on the final day courtesy a team effort. Being asked to bat first, India rode on KL Rahul's sublime 129 and valuable knocks from Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja and skipper Virat Kohli to post 364 all-out. In reply, England managed a slender 27-run lead courtesy Root's 180 not out. However, Jasprit Bumrah's relentless fast-bowling spell to England's veteran pacer James Anderson became a huge talking point before England ended their first innings. Bumrah bowled his heart out to Anderson, troubling him with extra pace and bounce as his barrage of bouncers left the experienced speedster completely rattled. It became a huge turning point in the closely-fought contest as England lost the plot in India's second essay, trying to unsettle Bumrah. Eventually, they were cornered by Kohli-led India, who came all out at the home side and triumphed on the final day. Ahead of the third Test, at Headingley, Leeds from August 25 (Wednesday), Anderson opened up on how he coped up with Bumrah's aggressive spell. 'Felt like he wasn't trying to get me out' “I got caught off guard a little bit because all the batters coming in were saying how slow the pitch was. Banged in short; it was really slow. When I came out to bat, Joe said Bumrah was not bowling as quick as he normally does," said Anderson on Tailenders podcast. “And then, the first ball was 90 miles an hour and on the money, wasn’t it? And it felt like, I haven’t felt like this ever in my career. I felt he wasn’t trying to get me out,” he added. Stunned by Bumrah's spell, Anderson was fired up when the former came out to bat during India's second innings at Lord's, with Team India reduced to 209-8 with the overall lead being only 182 on Day 5. However, Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's unbeaten 89-run ninth-wicket stand, and Mohammed Siraj's 4-fer during England's run-chase, enabled India's 151-run win at Lord's.

'He wasn't trying to get me out' - James Anderson opens up on Jasprit Bumrah's bouncer barrage at Lord's

Virat Kohli-led India are on cloud nine as they step into the third Test, of the five-match series, versus Joe Root-led England with a 1-0 lead. The second Test, at Lord's cricket ground, was a topsy-turvy ride before India stunned England with a terrific all-round display to win the contest by 151 runs on the final day.&nbsp;

Resuming Day 5 at 181-6, India had an overall lead of only 154 with Rishabh Pant and the tail-enders left with plenty to do. As India were reduced to 209-8, with both the overnight batters such as Pant and Ishant Sharma back in the pavillion, England lost the plot in trying to unsettle Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, with their overaggressive tactics, as the ninth-wicket pair added an unbeaten 89-run stand. As a result, India declared at 298-8, setting up a challenging 272-run target for the hosts in 60 overs.&nbsp;

Charged up by James Anderson &amp; Co.'s aggressive tactics, Team India rose to the occasion and bundled out Root &amp; Co. for 120 to win the Lord's Test by 151 runs. This became India's third win at the venue overall. While India also had a 1-0 lead after the conclusion of the second Test, at Lord's, during their 2014 England tour, it went all downhill for the then MS Dhoni-led visitors who lost the series 3-1.&nbsp;

Hence, Kohli-led India will be wary of not losing steam in the remainder of the series and will&nbsp;aim for an unassailable 2-0 lead. For the unversed, the likes of Shardul Thakur, Hanuma Vihari, R Ashwin and Mayank Agarwal are available for selection. While Vihari might be considered in place of underperforming Cheteshwar Pujara, the latter's vital 46 in India's second essay at Lords might help him retain his place.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see if Ashwin gets a look-in. Many had touted him to be a part of India's XI at Lord's. While two spinners might also feature, given that India's 4-pace attack is doing wonders, Ashwin can come in only at the expense of Ravindra Jadeja. Jadeja has been effective with the bat, but remains wicketless with the ball in hand.

If India need to add a swashbuckling batsman in their line-up and surprise the English camp, Suryakumar Yadav might also get a look-in.

India's predicted XI for the 3rd Test: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara/Hanuma Vihari/Suryakumar Yadav, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja/R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur/Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj

Virat Kohli-led India are on cloud nine as they step into the third Test, of the five-match series, versus Joe Root-led England with a 1-0 lead. The second Test, at Lord's cricket ground, was a topsy-turvy ride before India stunned England with a terrific all-round display to win the contest by 151 runs on the final day.

Virat Kohli-led India are on cloud nine as they step into the third Test, of the five-match series, versus Joe Root-led England with a 1-0 lead. The second Test, at Lord's cricket ground, was a topsy-turvy ride before India stunned England with a terrific all-round display to win the contest by 151 runs on the final day. Resuming Day 5 at 181-6, India had an overall lead of only 154 with Rishabh Pant and the tail-enders left with plenty to do. As India were reduced to 209-8, with both the overnight batters such as Pant and Ishant Sharma back in the pavillion, England lost the plot in trying to unsettle Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, with their overaggressive tactics, as the ninth-wicket pair added an unbeaten 89-run stand. As a result, India declared at 298-8, setting up a challenging 272-run target for the hosts in 60 overs. Charged up by James Anderson & Co.'s aggressive tactics, Team India rose to the occasion and bundled out Root & Co. for 120 to win the Lord's Test by 151 runs. This became India's third win at the venue overall. While India also had a 1-0 lead after the conclusion of the second Test, at Lord's, during their 2014 England tour, it went all downhill for the then MS Dhoni-led visitors who lost the series 3-1. Hence, Kohli-led India will be wary of not losing steam in the remainder of the series and will aim for an unassailable 2-0 lead. For the unversed, the likes of Shardul Thakur, Hanuma Vihari, R Ashwin and Mayank Agarwal are available for selection. While Vihari might be considered in place of underperforming Cheteshwar Pujara, the latter's vital 46 in India's second essay at Lords might help him retain his place. It will be interesting to see if Ashwin gets a look-in. Many had touted him to be a part of India's XI at Lord's. While two spinners might also feature, given that India's 4-pace attack is doing wonders, Ashwin can come in only at the expense of Ravindra Jadeja. Jadeja has been effective with the bat, but remains wicketless with the ball in hand. If India need to add a swashbuckling batsman in their line-up and surprise the English camp, Suryakumar Yadav might also get a look-in. India's predicted XI for the 3rd Test: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara/Hanuma Vihari/Suryakumar Yadav, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja/R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur/Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj

Will Virat Kohli & Co. include R Ashwin, Suryakumar Yadav and Shardul Thakur? Predicting India's XI for 3rd Test vs England

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series. However, many have questioned his long-term place in the playing XI. <o:p></o:p>

Opining on the matter, former India chief selector, MSK Prasad has backed the veteran while saying he has always stepped up when players like Virat Kohli and others have failed as the former India chief selector explained Rahane’s importance in the team. <o:p></o:p>

"I think he is too good a player to start with. Of course, he has gone through lots of ups and downs (of late) but whenever the team has been in trouble, he rises to the occasion. He has that potential. The graph is a little up and down but I don’t foresee any drastic decision being taken by team management. He will come back strongly. He is a wonderful team-man and everybody likes him a lot. Whenever Virat hasn’t played a big innings, this man has stepped up. We must not forget how he delivered as a captain and a player in Australia when many seniors were absent," Prasad told cricket.com.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-team-fined-40-per-cent-match-fee-for-slow-over-rate-in-1st-test-vs-new-zealand-389996" hreflang="en">Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand</a>

"He is a proven player and his overseas record is far superior to many of the Indian players and maybe at home he has struggled a bit. We should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him," Prasad added.<o:p></o:p>

Prasad added that players like Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are “true soldiers” of the team. <o:p></o:p>

"Again, we should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him. Someone like Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara because they are true soldiers who have served Indian cricket wonderfully well for several years in the longer format. We should in fact back them.<o:p></o:p>

"Such talents should never be sidelined as they are proven match-winners and complete players. Rahane is like a suicidal troop. He can go anywhere to bat for the team," he signed off.<o:p></o:p>

Rahane will be seen in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, followed by the five-Test series against England as India gear up for a vital couple of months ahead.<o:p></o:p>

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series.

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series. However, many have questioned his long-term place in the playing XI. Opining on the matter, former India chief selector, MSK Prasad has backed the veteran while saying he has always stepped up when players like Virat Kohli and others have failed as the former India chief selector explained Rahane’s importance in the team. "I think he is too good a player to start with. Of course, he has gone through lots of ups and downs (of late) but whenever the team has been in trouble, he rises to the occasion. He has that potential. The graph is a little up and down but I don’t foresee any drastic decision being taken by team management. He will come back strongly. He is a wonderful team-man and everybody likes him a lot. Whenever Virat hasn’t played a big innings, this man has stepped up. We must not forget how he delivered as a captain and a player in Australia when many seniors were absent," Prasad told cricket.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand "He is a proven player and his overseas record is far superior to many of the Indian players and maybe at home he has struggled a bit. We should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him," Prasad added. Prasad added that players like Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are “true soldiers” of the team. "Again, we should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him. Someone like Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara because they are true soldiers who have served Indian cricket wonderfully well for several years in the longer format. We should in fact back them. "Such talents should never be sidelined as they are proven match-winners and complete players. Rahane is like a suicidal troop. He can go anywhere to bat for the team," he signed off. Rahane will be seen in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, followed by the five-Test series against England as India gear up for a vital couple of months ahead.

Cricket: 'Whenever Virat Kohli hasn’t played big knock, he has stepped up': MSK Prasad backs Ajinkya Rahane in India XI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. <o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. <o:p></o:p>

"I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. <o:p></o:p>

"But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." <o:p></o:p>

India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-james-anderson-equalises-alastair-cooks-record-of-most-england-test-caps-388971" hreflang="en">Cricket: James Anderson equalises Alastair Cook's record of most England Test caps</a>

Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game.<o:p></o:p>

India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. <o:p></o:p>

"See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. <o:p></o:p>

"It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."<o:p></o:p>

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament.

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. "I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. "But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final. ALSO READ: Cricket: James Anderson equalises Alastair Cook's record of most England Test caps Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game. India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. "See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. "It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."

Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format

All eyes will be on young batter Shafali Verma when India take the field in their tour of England where the Women in Blue are set to play one-off Test, three ODIs and as many T20Is. As India gear up to depart to the UK, the Indian women team’s head coach Ramesh Powar sounded optimistic of Shafali’s prospects in English conditions.<o:p></o:p>

Powar was central to India men’s batsman Prithvi Shaw’s turnaround as the youngster roared back to form in Vijay Hazare Trophy for Mumbai following a disappointing tour of Australia, where he was dropped from the playing XI due to poor run of form.

Shaw went hammer and tonk in the domestic circuit and regained his form and confidence to take the first half of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by storm. He scored more than 800 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021 and then lit up the IPL 2021, scoring 308 runs in eight matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-cricket-needs-media-support-indias-mithali-raj-opines-on-naomi-osaka-controversy-388802" hreflang="en">Women's cricket needs media support: India's Mithali Raj opines on Naomi Osaka controversy</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Might see a different Shafali Verma after a month and&nbsp;half: Ramesh Powar</h2>

Powar hopes to achieve something similar with Shafali, who was surprisingly not picked for the WODI series against South Africa earlier this year. Shafali had garnered eyeballs from all around the world following her exploits for India in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 wherein the youngster played some blistering knocks to help the Women in Blue reach the final. <o:p></o:p>

“It depends on the way she handles the sessions of practice. We have done something great with Prithvi Shaw when he played the Vijay Hazare Trophy (for Mumbai). You can wait and watch, you might see a different Shafali Verma after a month and a half," Powar said on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

However, Powar said that the Indian team will finalise the plans around the team combination upon reaching England and assessing the conditions.<o:p></o:p>

"Every player in this tour will make a difference. Shafali is a special talent. We will explore the combinations that will help us win matches," the former Indian off-spinner said.<o:p></o:p>

Powar had helped Mumbai to win the Vijay Hazare Trophy in his short-stint before taking the job of the Indian women’s head coach.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kathryn-bryce-first-from-scotland-in-top-10-of-icc-player-rankings-388774" hreflang="en">Cricket: Kathryn Bryce first from Scotland in top 10 of ICC Player Rankings</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Not an ideal world but looking at the bright side: Ramesh Powar</o:p></h2>

Meanwhile, India women’s team will hardly have any match practice before the England series and Powar accepted that it is not the ideal situation. However, the head coach said the mental aspect of the game can make a huge difference. <o:p></o:p>

"It is a not ideal world, but we are looking at the bright side that we are playing cricket - Tests, ODIs and T20s. It's a long tour of 45 days. It is not physically possible to prepare, but mental make-up will make a huge difference."<o:p></o:p>

This will be the first-ever Test match for most of the players and skipper Mithali Raj said that cricketers must enjoy the atmosphere and learn from the experience. Only seven members of the Indian squad have played Test cricket before.&nbsp;

India women have so far played just 19 Tests while winning four of them. The Test against England women will be India's first since the one-off Test against South Africa in 2014/15 where the Mithali Raj-led outfit came victorious. India will further play their first-ever pink-ball Test against Australia later in the year.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

“It’s good to have Tests, whether it’s home or away. If there’s continuity it’s great because it helps players as well. Sometimes it's nice to go in without baggage, you just go in, play and enjoy the atmosphere,” Mithali said.<o:p></o:p>

“It’s good to have the girls who are playing for the first time and the girls who have played in the past and share their experiences how it was back in 2014. But having back-to-back Test matches can give a lot of exposure to the current lot.”<o:p></o:p>

Indian women’s team will depart for their tour of the UK on June 2 as they gear up to take on England in a one-off Test, three ODIs, and as many T20Is, starting June 16.<o:p></o:p>

All eyes will be on young batter Shafali Verma when India take the field in their tour of England where the Women in Blue are set to play one-off Test, three ODIs and as many T20Is.

All eyes will be on young batter Shafali Verma when India take the field in their tour of England where the Women in Blue are set to play one-off Test, three ODIs and as many T20Is. As India gear up to depart to the UK, the Indian women team’s head coach Ramesh Powar sounded optimistic of Shafali’s prospects in English conditions. Powar was central to India men’s batsman Prithvi Shaw’s turnaround as the youngster roared back to form in Vijay Hazare Trophy for Mumbai following a disappointing tour of Australia, where he was dropped from the playing XI due to poor run of form. Shaw went hammer and tonk in the domestic circuit and regained his form and confidence to take the first half of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by storm. He scored more than 800 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021 and then lit up the IPL 2021, scoring 308 runs in eight matches. ALSO READ: Women's cricket needs media support: India's Mithali Raj opines on Naomi Osaka controversy Might see a different Shafali Verma after a month and half: Ramesh Powar Powar hopes to achieve something similar with Shafali, who was surprisingly not picked for the WODI series against South Africa earlier this year. Shafali had garnered eyeballs from all around the world following her exploits for India in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 wherein the youngster played some blistering knocks to help the Women in Blue reach the final. “It depends on the way she handles the sessions of practice. We have done something great with Prithvi Shaw when he played the Vijay Hazare Trophy (for Mumbai). You can wait and watch, you might see a different Shafali Verma after a month and a half," Powar said on Tuesday. However, Powar said that the Indian team will finalise the plans around the team combination upon reaching England and assessing the conditions. "Every player in this tour will make a difference. Shafali is a special talent. We will explore the combinations that will help us win matches," the former Indian off-spinner said. Powar had helped Mumbai to win the Vijay Hazare Trophy in his short-stint before taking the job of the Indian women’s head coach. ALSO READ: Cricket: Kathryn Bryce first from Scotland in top 10 of ICC Player Rankings Not an ideal world but looking at the bright side: Ramesh Powar Meanwhile, India women’s team will hardly have any match practice before the England series and Powar accepted that it is not the ideal situation. However, the head coach said the mental aspect of the game can make a huge difference. "It is a not ideal world, but we are looking at the bright side that we are playing cricket - Tests, ODIs and T20s. It's a long tour of 45 days. It is not physically possible to prepare, but mental make-up will make a huge difference." This will be the first-ever Test match for most of the players and skipper Mithali Raj said that cricketers must enjoy the atmosphere and learn from the experience. Only seven members of the Indian squad have played Test cricket before. India women have so far played just 19 Tests while winning four of them. The Test against England women will be India's first since the one-off Test against South Africa in 2014/15 where the Mithali Raj-led outfit came victorious. India will further play their first-ever pink-ball Test against Australia later in the year. “It’s good to have Tests, whether it’s home or away. If there’s continuity it’s great because it helps players as well. Sometimes it's nice to go in without baggage, you just go in, play and enjoy the atmosphere,” Mithali said. “It’s good to have the girls who are playing for the first time and the girls who have played in the past and share their experiences how it was back in 2014. But having back-to-back Test matches can give a lot of exposure to the current lot.” Indian women’s team will depart for their tour of the UK on June 2 as they gear up to take on England in a one-off Test, three ODIs, and as many T20Is, starting June 16.

Cricket: Might see different Shafali Verma in a month and half, says Ramesh Powar ahead of England tour

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. <o:p></o:p>

According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK.<o:p></o:p>

However, none of the BCCI office-bearers, including board president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah will be present for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22 due to strict quarantine rules in the country. <o:p></o:p>

"Yes, it's good news that players will have their families during the tour of the UK. Ditto for the women's team who can also have their families around. These are times when the mental well-being of players is paramount.<o:p></o:p>

"The BCCI understands that we need our players and support staff to be in a good headspace," a source told PTI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mumbai-indians-trent-boult-looking-forward-to-participate-in-ipl-2021-in-uae-388749" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mumbai Indian's Trent Boult 'looking forward' to participate in IPL 2021 in UAE</a><o:p></o:p>

Ganguly and Shah weren’t granted exemption from the strict quarantine rules in the UK and they would have to undergo isolation of 10 days. Hence, they will be absent from the ICC WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"As far as I know, the ECB didn't grant permission to them (Ganguly and Shah). Normally, administrators go before the Test match but as per quarantine rules, since they are not playing members, they would have had to undergo hard quarantine of 10 days.<o:p></o:p>

"The team rules wouldn't have been applicable as far as president and secretary is concerned," the official further added.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian men’s and women’s teams will depart for Southampton after touching down in London.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-isnt-the-highest-paid-captain-in-international-cricket-check-full-list-of-skippers-and-salaries-in-2021-386865" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

According to PTI, India women will commence their one-off Test against England in Bristol from June 16 and will have to undergo hard quarantine in Southampton with the men’s team at Hotel Hilton. They will travel to Bristol on completion of their hard quarantine in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Indian teams will have to serve three days of hard quarantine and after that they can use the gym and start working on their skills. They have been serving a 14-day quarantine period in India and undergone six RT-PCR tests.<o:p></o:p>

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK.

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK. However, none of the BCCI office-bearers, including board president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah will be present for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22 due to strict quarantine rules in the country. "Yes, it's good news that players will have their families during the tour of the UK. Ditto for the women's team who can also have their families around. These are times when the mental well-being of players is paramount. "The BCCI understands that we need our players and support staff to be in a good headspace," a source told PTI. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mumbai Indian's Trent Boult 'looking forward' to participate in IPL 2021 in UAE Ganguly and Shah weren’t granted exemption from the strict quarantine rules in the UK and they would have to undergo isolation of 10 days. Hence, they will be absent from the ICC WTC final. "As far as I know, the ECB didn't grant permission to them (Ganguly and Shah). Normally, administrators go before the Test match but as per quarantine rules, since they are not playing members, they would have had to undergo hard quarantine of 10 days. "The team rules wouldn't have been applicable as far as president and secretary is concerned," the official further added. The Indian men’s and women’s teams will depart for Southampton after touching down in London. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 According to PTI, India women will commence their one-off Test against England in Bristol from June 16 and will have to undergo hard quarantine in Southampton with the men’s team at Hotel Hilton. They will travel to Bristol on completion of their hard quarantine in Southampton. Indian teams will have to serve three days of hard quarantine and after that they can use the gym and start working on their skills. They have been serving a 14-day quarantine period in India and undergone six RT-PCR tests.

Cricket: Players' families allowed for UK tour, BCCI office-bearers to skip WTC final due to quarantine rules

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has named his X-factor for Team India in the impending tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led outfit will play the World Test Championship final versus New Zealand and five Tests against England. Chopra further agreed with Rahul Dravid’s assessment that India are well capable of defeating the Joe Root-led outfit on their home soil.<o:p></o:p>

Former Indian skipper, Dravid had earlier predicted a 3-2 scoreline in favour of the visitors, and Chopra while weighing his opinion echoed the same sentiments as he said that this is a great opportunity for the Indian team to get a much-awaited Test series win on English soil.<o:p></o:p>

“I definitely agree, who will not agree with Rahul bhai. There is weight in what he has said, whenever India goes out these days, it is their best chance. To be fair, the chances had become less in Australia because of so many injuries but we won there as well. If you can win there with half a team, hardly eleven players who could be fielded, then to defeat England in England, I think this is a great opportunity,” said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-indias-pacers-force-opponents-to-think-what-wickets-they-want-to-offer-says-mohammed-shami-ahead-of-england-tour-388441" hreflang="en">Cricket: India's pacers force opponents to think what wickets they want to offer, says Mohammed Shami ahead of England tour</a><o:p></o:p>

Chopra added that India’s batting line-up may be the difference between the two sides and all eyes will be on the four pillars of the Indian batting unit-&nbsp; Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. Before concluding, the former Indian batsman named Rishabh Pant as the X-factor for Team India for the five-Test series against England.<o:p></o:p>

“There is strength in the batting, the fast bowling is good and the spinners are doing well. I think if we can bat well, we will be fine. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara - the Indian batting will be dependent on these four pillars,” said Chopra.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jasprit-bumrah-vs-trent-boult-michael-vaughan-picks-the-better-pacer-ahead-of-wtc-final-388423" hreflang="en">Cricket: Jasprit Bumrah vs Trent Boult - Michael Vaughan picks the better pacer ahead of WTC final</a><o:p></o:p>

“Rishabh Pant could be the X-factor. You can play with five bowlers by including Jadeja, so I do agree that this is perhaps the best opportunity for India to win in England,” he signed off.<o:p></o:p>

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has named his X-factor for Team India in the impending tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led outfit will play the World Test Championship final versus New Zealand and five Tests against England.

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has named his X-factor for Team India in the impending tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led outfit will play the World Test Championship final versus New Zealand and five Tests against England. Chopra further agreed with Rahul Dravid’s assessment that India are well capable of defeating the Joe Root-led outfit on their home soil. Former Indian skipper, Dravid had earlier predicted a 3-2 scoreline in favour of the visitors, and Chopra while weighing his opinion echoed the same sentiments as he said that this is a great opportunity for the Indian team to get a much-awaited Test series win on English soil. “I definitely agree, who will not agree with Rahul bhai. There is weight in what he has said, whenever India goes out these days, it is their best chance. To be fair, the chances had become less in Australia because of so many injuries but we won there as well. If you can win there with half a team, hardly eleven players who could be fielded, then to defeat England in England, I think this is a great opportunity,” said Chopra on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ: Cricket: India's pacers force opponents to think what wickets they want to offer, says Mohammed Shami ahead of England tour Chopra added that India’s batting line-up may be the difference between the two sides and all eyes will be on the four pillars of the Indian batting unit- Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. Before concluding, the former Indian batsman named Rishabh Pant as the X-factor for Team India for the five-Test series against England. “There is strength in the batting, the fast bowling is good and the spinners are doing well. I think if we can bat well, we will be fine. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara - the Indian batting will be dependent on these four pillars,” said Chopra. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jasprit Bumrah vs Trent Boult - Michael Vaughan picks the better pacer ahead of WTC final “Rishabh Pant could be the X-factor. You can play with five bowlers by including Jadeja, so I do agree that this is perhaps the best opportunity for India to win in England,” he signed off.

Cricket: Aakash Chopra names 'X-factor' for Team India in the tour of England

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has said that the current crop of fast bowlers of the country has not only forced teams to take notice but also pushed them to twice before preparing green tracks to host the Indian cricket team. Shami, who is one of the senior members of India’s bowling department, is gearing up for a gruelling tour of the UK where India will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five Test matches against England.<o:p></o:p>

India’s fast bowling contingent includes the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj along with Shardul Thakur. <o:p></o:p>

"The best thing about our bowling unit is that we have 4-5 pacers who can constantly bowl at over 140-145 clicks. You can find 1-2, but to find 4-5 is tough, and we have that. We force the opposition to think what wickets they want to offer us. I don't think we've had bowlers who could bowl at this pace earlier, we never had 4-5 of them coming in units. Earlier, teams used to plan easily against us but today they are forced to think otherwise," Shami told India News.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jasprit-bumrah-vs-trent-boult-michael-vaughan-picks-the-better-pacer-ahead-of-wtc-final-388423" hreflang="en">Cricket: Jasprit Bumrah vs Trent Boult - Michael Vaughan picks the better pacer ahead of WTC final</a><o:p></o:p>

Shami opined that the seniors have taken up the duty to guide the youngsters as they want the next-gen bowlers to be up at the very best level. <o:p></o:p>

Young pacers like Prasidh Krishna and Arzan Nagwasawalla, who are in the Indian contingent for the UK tour, would want to pick the brains of the senior pacers such as Bumrah, Shami and Ishant. <o:p></o:p>

"As seniors, our duty is to tell the youngsters to ask us things freely. Overall, the atmosphere and camaraderie between the juniors and seniors is amazing. The thing is, all of us will have to leave the game someday but it is important to think about what we are leaving behind, for the team and the youngsters. It's important to make your country, captain and the board proud," Shami added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kkrs-pat-cummins-to-miss-remainder-of-ipl-2021-in-uae-report-388392" hreflang="en">Cricket: KKR's Pat Cummins to miss remainder of IPL 2021 in UAE - Report</a><o:p></o:p>

India depart for their tour to the UK on June 2 after completing their quarantine period in India. <o:p></o:p>

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has said that the current crop of fast bowlers of the country has not only forced teams to take notice but also pushed them to twice before preparing green tracks to host the Indian cricket team.

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has said that the current crop of fast bowlers of the country has not only forced teams to take notice but also pushed them to twice before preparing green tracks to host the Indian cricket team. Shami, who is one of the senior members of India’s bowling department, is gearing up for a gruelling tour of the UK where India will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five Test matches against England. India’s fast bowling contingent includes the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj along with Shardul Thakur. "The best thing about our bowling unit is that we have 4-5 pacers who can constantly bowl at over 140-145 clicks. You can find 1-2, but to find 4-5 is tough, and we have that. We force the opposition to think what wickets they want to offer us. I don't think we've had bowlers who could bowl at this pace earlier, we never had 4-5 of them coming in units. Earlier, teams used to plan easily against us but today they are forced to think otherwise," Shami told India News. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jasprit Bumrah vs Trent Boult - Michael Vaughan picks the better pacer ahead of WTC final Shami opined that the seniors have taken up the duty to guide the youngsters as they want the next-gen bowlers to be up at the very best level. Young pacers like Prasidh Krishna and Arzan Nagwasawalla, who are in the Indian contingent for the UK tour, would want to pick the brains of the senior pacers such as Bumrah, Shami and Ishant. "As seniors, our duty is to tell the youngsters to ask us things freely. Overall, the atmosphere and camaraderie between the juniors and seniors is amazing. The thing is, all of us will have to leave the game someday but it is important to think about what we are leaving behind, for the team and the youngsters. It's important to make your country, captain and the board proud," Shami added. ALSO READ: Cricket: KKR's Pat Cummins to miss remainder of IPL 2021 in UAE - Report India depart for their tour to the UK on June 2 after completing their quarantine period in India.

Cricket: India's pacers force opponents to think what wickets they want to offer, says Mohammed Shami ahead of England tour

Former World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has weighed his opinion on swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has been hailed as one of the most talented batters in today’s cricket. <o:p></o:p>

While Pant took the world by storm as he roared back to form in the Test series against Australia and England, Kapil Dev reckons that the southpaw needs to slow down a bit and find a perfect blend of caution and aggression as India gear up to take on New Zealand in the World Test Championship final before locking horns with England in a five-Test series. <o:p></o:p>

“He looks a very mature cricketer now from the time he came into the side. He seems to have far more time to play his shots and obviously his range of strokes is awesome. But England will be challenging. He must spend more time in the middle and not just look to hit every ball. We used to say the same about Rohit Sharma, who had so many shots, but would step out and get out so many times,” Kapil Dev was quoted as saying by Mid Day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-expecting-it-to-be-tough-henry-nicholls-warns-new-zealand-ahead-of-wtc-final-vs-india-387573" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Expecting it to be tough' - Henry Nicholls warns New Zealand ahead of WTC final vs India</a><o:p></o:p>

As Kapil compared Pant to Rohit Sharma, he suggested the youngster to take some time to settle in before launching his array of strokes. <o:p></o:p>

“Same is with Rishabh now. He is an exciting player and very valuable too. All I would tell him is to take time before unfolding his range of shots. England is different.”<o:p></o:p>

The former Indian skipper further added that he loves Test cricket the most and always looks forward to watching full day’s play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-englands-ben-foakes-ruled-out-of-new-zealand-tests-sam-billings-haseeb-hameed-called-up-387541" hreflang="en">Cricket: England's Ben Foakes ruled out of New Zealand Tests; Sam Billings, Haseeb Hameed called up</a><o:p></o:p>

“Of course. I am a big fan of Test cricket. I love watching the full day’s play. If work keeps me away from the TV, I catch up with the highlights. I always watch as much as I can. There is nothing like Test cricket.”<o:p></o:p>

India will take on New Zealand in the final of ICC World Test Championship – starting June 18 in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Former World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has weighed his opinion on swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has been hailed as one of the most talented batters in today’s cricket.

Former World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has weighed his opinion on swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has been hailed as one of the most talented batters in today’s cricket. While Pant took the world by storm as he roared back to form in the Test series against Australia and England, Kapil Dev reckons that the southpaw needs to slow down a bit and find a perfect blend of caution and aggression as India gear up to take on New Zealand in the World Test Championship final before locking horns with England in a five-Test series. “He looks a very mature cricketer now from the time he came into the side. He seems to have far more time to play his shots and obviously his range of strokes is awesome. But England will be challenging. He must spend more time in the middle and not just look to hit every ball. We used to say the same about Rohit Sharma, who had so many shots, but would step out and get out so many times,” Kapil Dev was quoted as saying by Mid Day. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Expecting it to be tough' - Henry Nicholls warns New Zealand ahead of WTC final vs India As Kapil compared Pant to Rohit Sharma, he suggested the youngster to take some time to settle in before launching his array of strokes. “Same is with Rishabh now. He is an exciting player and very valuable too. All I would tell him is to take time before unfolding his range of shots. England is different.” The former Indian skipper further added that he loves Test cricket the most and always looks forward to watching full day’s play. ALSO READ: Cricket: England's Ben Foakes ruled out of New Zealand Tests; Sam Billings, Haseeb Hameed called up “Of course. I am a big fan of Test cricket. I love watching the full day’s play. If work keeps me away from the TV, I catch up with the highlights. I always watch as much as I can. There is nothing like Test cricket.” India will take on New Zealand in the final of ICC World Test Championship – starting June 18 in Southampton.

Cricket: Kapil Dev comes up with valuable advise for Rishabh Pant ahead of England tour

The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for the long tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will not only play the ICC World Test Championship final but also a five-match Test series against England. However, the BCCI is in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a bid to tweak the much-awaited Test series and find a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. <o:p></o:p>

IPL 2021 had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble. With a packed international cricket calendar, the BCCI is still seeking a window for the remainder of IPL 2021. <o:p></o:p>

According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rahul-dravid-to-coach-indian-mens-team-on-sri-lanka-tour-386192" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rahul Dravid to coach Indian men's team on Sri Lanka tour</a><o:p></o:p>

“BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.<o:p></o:p>

“Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-womens-team-to-play-first-ever-pink-ball-test-in-australia-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-386187" hreflang="en">Indian women's team to play first-ever pink ball Test in Australia: BCCI secretary Jay Shah</a><o:p></o:p>

The five-Test series between India and England is slated to start on August 4 in Nottingham with the final match to be held in Manchester from September 10. With the T20 World Cup starting in mid-October, the BCCI is looking for a window before the showpiece tournament with as many as 31 matches still remaining to be played in the postponed IPL 2021. <o:p></o:p>

With County clubs ready to host IPL 2021 matches, BCCI is looking at England as a possible venue for the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for the long tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will not only play the ICC World Test Championship final but also a five-match Test series against England.

The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for the long tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will not only play the ICC World Test Championship final but also a five-match Test series against England. However, the BCCI is in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a bid to tweak the much-awaited Test series and find a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. IPL 2021 had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble. With a packed international cricket calendar, the BCCI is still seeking a window for the remainder of IPL 2021. According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rahul Dravid to coach Indian men's team on Sri Lanka tour “BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. “Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added. ALSO READ: Indian women's team to play first-ever pink ball Test in Australia: BCCI secretary Jay Shah The five-Test series between India and England is slated to start on August 4 in Nottingham with the final match to be held in Manchester from September 10. With the T20 World Cup starting in mid-October, the BCCI is looking for a window before the showpiece tournament with as many as 31 matches still remaining to be played in the postponed IPL 2021. With County clubs ready to host IPL 2021 matches, BCCI is looking at England as a possible venue for the T20 tournament.

BCCI in talks with ECB to tweak India-England Tests, find window for IPL 2021: Report

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

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

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

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

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. <o:p></o:p>

“Yes, those travelling to England are entering the bio-bubble on May 19 after regrouping in Mumbai. After completing the hard quarantine (confined to hotel rooms) in Mumbai, the team will depart for the UK on June 2,” a source close to the Indian team told WION. <o:p></o:p>

The BCCI wanted to complete a quarantine period to avoid any positive COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom. The Indian board is also in talks with the England Cricket Board (ECB) to reduce the 10-day soft quarantine (training allowed) as it will be a bubble-to-bubble movement. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be any concession in this regard for the Indian contingent.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a><o:p></o:p>

Earlier, the BCCI had announced a 24-member squad including four standby players for the long season in the UK, which is scheduled to conclude on September 14 following the grueling five-match Test series against Joe Root-led England.<o:p></o:p>

Out of those 24, KL Rahul and Wriddhiman Saha would have to undergo a fitness test while Prasidh Krishna, who tested positive for COVID-19 a few days back, will have to return negative to be eligible to travel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a>

Whereas the squad for the Indian women's team is likely to be announced on Friday. India women play three WODIs as many T20Is and one-off Test against England starting June 16.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England<o:p></o:p></h2>

India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance).<o:p></o:p>

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai.

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. “Yes, those travelling to England are entering the bio-bubble on May 19 after regrouping in Mumbai. After completing the hard quarantine (confined to hotel rooms) in Mumbai, the team will depart for the UK on June 2,” a source close to the Indian team told WION. The BCCI wanted to complete a quarantine period to avoid any positive COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom. The Indian board is also in talks with the England Cricket Board (ECB) to reduce the 10-day soft quarantine (training allowed) as it will be a bubble-to-bubble movement. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be any concession in this regard for the Indian contingent. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team Earlier, the BCCI had announced a 24-member squad including four standby players for the long season in the UK, which is scheduled to conclude on September 14 following the grueling five-match Test series against Joe Root-led England. Out of those 24, KL Rahul and Wriddhiman Saha would have to undergo a fitness test while Prasidh Krishna, who tested positive for COVID-19 a few days back, will have to return negative to be eligible to travel. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' Whereas the squad for the Indian women's team is likely to be announced on Friday. India women play three WODIs as many T20Is and one-off Test against England starting June 16. India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance). Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Team India to enter bio-bubble on May 19 in Mumbai ahead of England tour

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

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

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

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

India A’s tour of England in 2021 has been postponed,&nbsp;after an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Instead, India men’s senior team will tour with a larger squad to prepare for, and use during, the five-match Test series. <o:p></o:p>

India’s warm-up schedule will now comprise two intra-squad four-day matches, which will replace the two previously planned four-day fixtures between India Men and India A in July. Venues for those two intra-squad matches are to be confirmed.<o:p></o:p>

Following further discussions by ECB with the boards of New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, it has been agreed to cancel their scheduled men’s tour matches against First-Class County clubs. New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s men’s teams will instead play intra-squad matches to allow them suitable preparation for their international fixtures this summer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-women-announce-home-fixtures-for-2021-to-host-india-and-new-zealand-check-full-schedule-377303" hreflang="en">England Women announce home fixtures for 2021; to host India and New Zealand - Check full schedule</a>

ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “We are looking forward to staging a memorable summer of men’s and women’s international cricket when fans are set to return to venues.<o:p></o:p>

“Ensuring the safest possible environment for international cricket is our first priority and we are appreciative for the understanding of our fellow boards.

<o:p></o:p>

“We look forward to welcoming a men’s India A tour at a later date after this summer and when restrictions have eased. It will provide a valuable opportunity for players from both countries to experience high-quality cricket and to showcase the talent within our England Lions team and first-class counties.”

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sanju-samson-backed-himself-to-finish-the-match-vs-pbks-kumar-sangakkara-377300/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

India A’s tour of England in 2021 has been postponed, after an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

India A’s tour of England in 2021 has been postponed, after an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Instead, India men’s senior team will tour with a larger squad to prepare for, and use during, the five-match Test series. India’s warm-up schedule will now comprise two intra-squad four-day matches, which will replace the two previously planned four-day fixtures between India Men and India A in July. Venues for those two intra-squad matches are to be confirmed. Following further discussions by ECB with the boards of New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, it has been agreed to cancel their scheduled men’s tour matches against First-Class County clubs. New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s men’s teams will instead play intra-squad matches to allow them suitable preparation for their international fixtures this summer. ALSO READ: England Women announce home fixtures for 2021; to host India and New Zealand - Check full schedule ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “We are looking forward to staging a memorable summer of men’s and women’s international cricket when fans are set to return to venues. “Ensuring the safest possible environment for international cricket is our first priority and we are appreciative for the understanding of our fellow boards. “We look forward to welcoming a men’s India A tour at a later date after this summer and when restrictions have eased. It will provide a valuable opportunity for players from both countries to experience high-quality cricket and to showcase the talent within our England Lions team and first-class counties.” ×

India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour

England Women are set to host India in a multi-format series across June and July with a one-off Test at Briston kicking off the busy summer - and New Zealand in T20Is and&nbsp;ODI series in September.<o:p></o:p>

It will be India Women’s first full-fledged away series since the T20 World Cup in 2020. India had recently hosted South Africa for WODI and WT20Is. However, with South Africa dominating the series, India Women would be looking for a much-improved showing when they visit England for a much-awaited tour.<o:p></o:p>

ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: "We're really looking forward to a busy summer in what is a huge year for our England Women's team, and we're very excited about hosting India and New Zealand.<o:p></o:p>

"The two international series will sit either side of The Hundred, and with the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy and the new Regional T20 competition running throughout the summer, it's a fixture list that offers a lot for both our players and our fans.<o:p></o:p>

"With the 2022 ICC Women's World Cup around the corner it is of paramount importance that our England team is able to prepare accordingly, and with the team, also due to travel to Pakistan in October we can look forward to an exciting 12 months of international women's cricket."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lizelle-lee-and-bhuvneshwar-kumar-voted-icc-players-of-the-month-for-march-2021-377282" hreflang="en">Lizelle Lee and Bhuvneshwar Kumar voted ICC Players of the Month for March 2021</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">England Women vs India - Complete fixture<o:p></o:p></h2>

Test Series<o:p></o:p>

Wednesday, June 16-Saturday June 19: &nbsp;Test Match. England v India (Bristol County Ground)<o:p></o:p>

ODI Series<o:p></o:p>

Sunday, June 27: 1st match of the ODI Series. England v India (Bristol County Ground)<o:p></o:p>

Wednesday, June 30: 2nd match of the ODI Series. England v India (The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton)<o:p></o:p>

Sunday, July 3: 3rd match of the ODI Series. England v India (New Road, Worcester)<o:p></o:p>

T20I Series<o:p></o:p>

Friday, July 9: 1st T20I. England v India (The County Ground, Northampton)<o:p></o:p>

Sunday, July 11: 2nd T20I: England v India (The 1st Central County Ground, Hove)<o:p></o:p>

Thursday, July 15: 3rd T20I: England v India (The Cloudfm County Ground, Chelmsford)

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-are-some-major-records-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-can-shatter-in-ipl-2021-376648" hreflang="en">Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">England Women vs New Zealand Women - Complete fixture&nbsp;</h2>

T20I Series<o:p></o:p>

Wednesday, September 1: 1st T20I. England v New Zealand (The Cloudfm County Ground, Chelmsford)<o:p></o:p>

Saturday, September 4: 2nd T20I. England v New Zealand (The 1st Central County Ground, Hove)<o:p></o:p>

Thursday, September 9: 3rd T20I. England v New Zealand (The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton)<o:p></o:p>

ODI Series<o:p></o:p>

Thursday, September 16: 1st match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (Bristol County Ground)<o:p></o:p>

Sunday, September 19: 2nd match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (New Road, Worcester)<o:p></o:p>

Tuesday, September 21: 3rd match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (The Uptonsteel County Ground, Leicester)<o:p></o:p>

Thursday, September 23: 4th match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (The Incora County Ground, Derby)<o:p></o:p>

Sunday, September 26: 5th match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence, Canterbury)<o:p></o:p>

England Women are set to host India in a multi-format series across June and July with a one-off Test at Briston kicking off the busy summer - and New Zealand in T20Is and ODI series in September.

England Women are set to host India in a multi-format series across June and July with a one-off Test at Briston kicking off the busy summer - and New Zealand in T20Is and ODI series in September. It will be India Women’s first full-fledged away series since the T20 World Cup in 2020. India had recently hosted South Africa for WODI and WT20Is. However, with South Africa dominating the series, India Women would be looking for a much-improved showing when they visit England for a much-awaited tour. ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: "We're really looking forward to a busy summer in what is a huge year for our England Women's team, and we're very excited about hosting India and New Zealand. "The two international series will sit either side of The Hundred, and with the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy and the new Regional T20 competition running throughout the summer, it's a fixture list that offers a lot for both our players and our fans. "With the 2022 ICC Women's World Cup around the corner it is of paramount importance that our England team is able to prepare accordingly, and with the team, also due to travel to Pakistan in October we can look forward to an exciting 12 months of international women's cricket." ALSO READ: Lizelle Lee and Bhuvneshwar Kumar voted ICC Players of the Month for March 2021 England Women vs India - Complete fixture Test Series Wednesday, June 16-Saturday June 19: Test Match. England v India (Bristol County Ground) ODI Series Sunday, June 27: 1st match of the ODI Series. England v India (Bristol County Ground) Wednesday, June 30: 2nd match of the ODI Series. England v India (The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton) Sunday, July 3: 3rd match of the ODI Series. England v India (New Road, Worcester) T20I Series Friday, July 9: 1st T20I. England v India (The County Ground, Northampton) Sunday, July 11: 2nd T20I: England v India (The 1st Central County Ground, Hove) Thursday, July 15: 3rd T20I: England v India (The Cloudfm County Ground, Chelmsford) ALSO READ: Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021 England Women vs New Zealand Women - Complete fixture T20I Series Wednesday, September 1: 1st T20I. England v New Zealand (The Cloudfm County Ground, Chelmsford) Saturday, September 4: 2nd T20I. England v New Zealand (The 1st Central County Ground, Hove) Thursday, September 9: 3rd T20I. England v New Zealand (The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton) ODI Series Thursday, September 16: 1st match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (Bristol County Ground) Sunday, September 19: 2nd match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (New Road, Worcester) Tuesday, September 21: 3rd match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (The Uptonsteel County Ground, Leicester) Thursday, September 23: 4th match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (The Incora County Ground, Derby) Sunday, September 26: 5th match of the ODI Series. England v New Zealand (The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence, Canterbury)

England Women announce home fixtures for 2021; to host India and New Zealand - Check full schedule