Team India is gearing up for a crucial five-match Test series against England, starting on June 20. To ensure top form, the BCCI has likely instructed key senior players, including Virat Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma, to participate in India A matches ahead of the series. This decision follows their recent underwhelming performances in Tests, both in Australia and at home against New Zealand.

Kohli and Rohit have struggled in red-ball cricket, with Rohit scoring only 164 runs in three Tests since September, including a poor 31-run total in Australia. Kohli, despite scoring a century in Perth, managed an average of just 23.75 against Australia. Their attempt to regain form in the Ranji Trophy yielded little success.

As per Hindustan Times, the BCCI has introduced a policy requiring Test players to feature in India A matches before major overseas tours. India A will face England Lions in two four-day games: the first at The Spitfire Ground, Canterbury, from May 30, and the second at County Ground, Northampton, starting June 6.

A major challenge in implementing this plan is the IPL 2025 playoffs, scheduled for May 20, 21, 23, with the final on May 25. Since many senior Test players are part of IPL franchises, their availability for India A games remains uncertain. However, the BCCI is prioritizing Test cricket, which may require struggling players to leave IPL early for red-ball preparations.

Additionally, Karun Nair, who had a stellar domestic season with 863 runs in the Ranji Trophy, is expected to be part of the India A squad. India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir is also likely to accompany the team to closely monitor the players.