Reports: BCCI set to come up with plan to keep players ready for England Tests during IPL 2025

With the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) set to run from March 22 to May 25, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is coming up with a strategy to ensure players remain prepared for the five-match Test series against England, scheduled for June and July. Given the challenges of changing between formats, the BCCI is looking to maintain a balance between IPL and Test cricket.

Historically, India's performances in Test series in England immediately following the IPL have been underwhelming. The 2011 tour ended in a 4-0 whitewash, while the 2014 and 2018 series resulted in 3-1 and 4-1 losses, respectively. Even in 2021, the visitors had a 2-1 lead before the Covid-19 pandemic halted the series, ultimately ending in a 2-2 draw when the postponed final Test was played a year later.

Seeing the consistent struggles in England, the BCCI is making sure that players remain in touch with red-ball cricket despite the white-ball action of the IPL. This plan comes up following a series of recent Test match setbacks, including a 3-0 home defeat against New Zealand and a 3-1 loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Also Read: What if MS Dhoni played for Pakistan? - 'What-If' Cricket Scenario

These sessions will be on keeping the Test specialists in rhythm

The board is considering implementing a plan that includes dedicated red-ball practice sessions for select players during the IPL. These sessions will be on keeping the Test specialists in rhythm, ensuring they are mentally and technically prepared for the English conditions. In addition, unconventional training activities will be prepared for individual players.

Some discussions regarding this initiative took place in Dubai, where members of the Indian team management and BCCI officials gathered during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Further conversations are expected to take place after the tournament concludes on March 9. Historically, the BCCI has allowed players to focus solely on their franchise commitments during the IPL. However, with the importance of the England Test series, a difference in approach is certain.