As India’s cricketing calendar intensifies behind the scenes, the India A tour of England 2025 is shaping into a crucial proving ground for future Test aspirants. With the IPL 2025 temporarily postponed, the focus shifts to red-ball cricket, offering a significant platform for fringe players and potential Test regulars.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set the stage for a compelling series that pits India A against England Lions and the senior India squad.
India A's tour of England may be delayed because of IPL 2025 rescheduling.#England #India #IPL https://t.co/XhjU9CcDke
— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 11, 2025
Abhimanyu Easwaran Set to Lead a Resilient India A Squad
Abhimanyu Easwaran, one of the most consistent performers in India’s domestic circuit, is poised to lead the India A side. With years of dependable run-scoring behind him, Easwaran’s potential elevation to captaincy underlines the selectors’ emphasis on experience and stability.
The Bengal batter’s leadership could play a pivotal role in harnessing young talent in English conditions, which historically demand discipline and technique.
Karun Nair and Baba Indrajith Among Top Picks
Karun Nair, fresh off an outstanding Ranji season with 863 runs at an average of 53.93, is among the prominent names likely to don the India A jersey. His return signals renewed faith in his ability to anchor innings under pressure. Baba Indrajith, another domestic stalwart, also finds his name in contention. Both bring a wealth of first-class experience and a hunger to reclaim a national berth.
Selection Strategy Amid IPL Uncertainty
The IPL postponement has dramatically influenced squad composition. The BCCI has advised selectors to prioritize non-IPL players and those whose franchises are unlikely to make the playoffs. This move ensures the availability of red-ball specialists unaffected by the rigors of the T20 league.
In the initial squad selection, alongside Easwaran, Nair, and Indrajith, names like Tanush Kotian and Akash Deep are emerging. Dhruv Jurel and Nitish Reddy are confirmed for the A squad, with their elevation to the senior side already in motion. Shardul Thakur is a near-lock for the senior Test team, while the inclusion of Ishan Kishan remains ambiguous, especially with Jurel and Rishabh Pant in contention.
Shreyas Iyer and the Virat Kohli Equation
Shreyas Iyer’s omission from both India A and the senior squad raises eyebrows. Despite his 14-Test experience, Iyer hasn’t played a red-ball match in over 15 months. His future hinges on the availability of senior stalwarts like Virat Kohli. If Kohli opts out, selectors may revisit Iyer’s credentials. At present, however, he remains on the periphery of Test selection.
Bowling Contingent: Swing, Pace, and Left-Arm Variations
Mukesh Kumar is another name generating interest, thanks to his ability to extract swing – a crucial asset in England. His inclusion may depend on his IPL team’s progress, as will the case for Yash Dayal. The latter has leapfrogged Khaleel Ahmed in the pecking order for the left-arm seamers’ role. Dayal’s tighter lines and adaptability make him a strong contender for overseas conditions.
Sarfaraz Khan’s Uncertain Return Post-Injury
Sarfaraz Khan remains a question mark. Coming off a significant injury layoff, the selectors typically expect players in similar positions to prove fitness and form via domestic cricket. Unless that requirement is waived, Khan may have to wait for another opportunity to break into the national setup.
Match Schedule and Strategic Purpose
India A’s England tour will feature three matches:
- May 30 – June 2: India A vs England Lions (1st Match)
- June 6 – June 9: India A vs England Lions (2nd Match)
- June 13 – June 16: India A vs Senior India Team
This shadow tour serves dual purposes: nurturing bench strength and preparing the core Test team for challenging overseas conditions. It is also expected to be a testing ground for the new senior team captain, whose announcement is slated for May 23.
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🚨 𝑹𝑬𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑻𝑺 🚨
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) May 11, 2025
The India A squad for the England tour is likely to be announced on May 13th, with Abhimanyu Easwaran expected to lead the side 🤍🤝
The squad is also likely to include Karun Nair, Akash Deep, Tanush Kotian, and Baba Indrajith 🇮🇳🏏#KarunNair… pic.twitter.com/VLDSYNRSkv
Conclusion
The India A tour of England 2025 arrives at a critical juncture for Indian cricket. As senior stalwarts transition or take time off, the spotlight intensifies on the next wave.
With selections hinting at a mix of proven domestic performers and rising stars, this tour is more than a preparatory series—it’s a battle for Test relevance and a chance to script the future of Indian red-ball cricket.
