Picture Credit: ICC
After suffering a 8-wicket defeat in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, the Indian Cricket Board is keen on focusing on optimum preparations for the 5-match Test series against England. The Blackcaps definitely had an edge over India, ahead of the WTC final, having played two Tests against England and winning the series 1-0, which clearly helped them to ace the mega-Test. Having suffered the WTC final, BCCI is wary of the preparations and practice matches required to be played ahead of the Test series against England which is scheduled to commence from August 4.
Jay Shah to speak to ECB for organizing competitive warm-up game
In order to avoid a repeat of what happened in the WTC final, it’s learned that BCCI Secretary Jay Shah will speak to the ECB chairman to organize a competitive warm-up game. As per sources, the Board has sent in a formal request to the England and Wales Cricket Board for the same and is awaiting their response.
However, a red-ball warm-up game will affect England’s domestic cricket schedule. The England cricket team has a busy season in July, with The Hundred and Royal London One Day Cup scheduled ahead of the Test series against India.
Kohli and Co were to tour the country on a three-week break with their families for a holiday ahead of the preparations for the Test series. However, looking at the Cornonavirus condition in the UK, this vacation is likely to get cancelled. “We are monitoring the situation and if the conditions get worse, we will take a call,” a BCCI official mentioned.