BCCI takes big decision on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of England tests

In a move aimed at enhancing preparation, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a significant decision ahead of India's five-match Test series against England, beginning on June 20. 

The move potentially shakes up the established hierarchy, and several senior Indian players, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, may be asked to feature in the India A squad for two four-day matches against the England Lions, as per a report by PTI.

India A to Play Two Warm-Up Matches

The preparatory matches are scheduled for May 30 and June 6, providing much-needed red-ball practice before the main Test series. 

The first match will be played at The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence, Canterbury, while the second will take place at County Ground, Northampton, marking a crucial opportunity for players struggling with form to regain rhythm before the high-stakes England tour, which also marks the start of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle.

Rohit and Kohli Under Scrutiny

Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have had underwhelming performances in the recent Test series.

Rohit, who has been leading India in red-ball cricket, managed only 164 runs in three Tests since September, including a mere 31 runs against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Similarly, Kohli averaged 23.75 against Australia, despite scoring a century in Perth. Their participation in the India A games is seen as a way to fine-tune their form ahead of the England tour.

Conflict with IPL Schedules

With the IPL 2025 playoffs set for May 20, 21, and 23 and the final on May 25, this decision might create scheduling conflicts for players contracted with IPL franchises. However, the BCCI is keen to prioritise Test match readiness over T20 commitments.

Karun Nair in the Fray

In addition to the senior players, Karun Nair is being considered for the India A squad. The experienced batsman had an exceptional domestic season, emerging as the top scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the fourth-highest run-getter in the Ranji Trophy with 863 runs at an average of 54, including four centuries.

Gautam Gambhir to Oversee India A

Meanwhile, India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, is expected to accompany the India A squad, closely assessing players’ performances. Such a strategy suggests that strong performances in the warm-up matches could lead to a promotion to the senior Test team.