Indian selectors have begun preparations for the upcoming India 'A' tour of England, even as the IPL 2025 continues to dominate headlines. India 'A' is scheduled to play two unofficial Tests against the England Lions ahead of the senior men's team’s tour of England. While most of the squad has been shortlisted, a few spots remain under discussion as selectors monitor performances and fitness.
Players such as Sai Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar, and Karun Nair are expected to be included in the squad. The selectors aim to test these players in the conditions before they potentially step up to the main team.
Projected Players for India 'A'
A meeting was held on May 6, just before Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket. A key takeaway from the meeting was that several players projected for the senior team should participate in matches for India 'A' to enhance their chances of joining the main squad.
The projected players for the senior team include Sai Sudharsan, Karun Nair, Akash Deep, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Dhruv Jurel, all of whom are set to join the India 'A' squad.
Additionally, the BCCI is prioritizing the selection of non-IPL players for the tour, especially since the IPL has been postponed. Some players listed above are currently involved in teams contending for the play-offs, but they will join the squad once the tournament concludes. A meeting to resume the IPL is reportedly happening today.
Abhimanyu Easwaran expected to lead India 'A'
Non-IPL players, including Abhimanyu Easwaran, who is expected to lead India 'A', Tanush Kotian; and Baba Indrajith, are expected to be the first batch to travel to England.
On the bowling front, selectors are focusing on swing bowlers, with Mukesh Kumar and Yash Dayal considered strong options for the tour. Currently, Mohammed Shami is not a guaranteed selection, as the selectors are weighing their options for the main team going to England.
Virat Kohli's shocking retirement announcement from Test cricket is a significant loss for the Indian team, and his absence creates a challenge for filling his position. With Shreyas Iyer currently unavailable, the potential return of the Punjab Kings captain could see him included in the India 'A' squad and then in the main team.
Ishan Kishan misses out?
Players missing out on selection include Ishan Kishan, as the team has decided to prioritize Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel as wicketkeeper options. Ricky Bhui, who was the top scorer for Andhra this season and a skilled wicketkeeper-batsman, is also set to miss the squad after initially being rumored to be part of the India 'A' lineup.
The India 'A' vs. England Lions series is scheduled to take place from May 30 to June 2, featuring three Test matches—two against the England Lions and a third, closed-door match against India's senior team. The squad for India’s senior team is expected to be finalized by May 19, according to reports.
