2020 is a year worth forgetting for both cricket players and fans not only in India but also worldwide after a forceful break to combat the spread of COVID-19. But as we struggle to adapt to the new norm, there is a reason to smile with the resumption of sports. Even though it comes as good news to many, the Indian National Cricket Team players will find it tough with a hectic schedule they must honor.
Team India is set to play at least 7 bilateral series, ICC World Cup T20, the Asia Cup T20, and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. To increase their chances of achieving success despite the busy schedule, all players will get ample rest with the rotation policy coming into full force. Of course, this is thanks to the support from the Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) and the pool of talent now. Read on to find out more regarding the hectic Team India cricket schedule in the coming 12 months.
England Tour of India (January-March)
When done with the Australia Series, Team India will start the new year by playing host to England for their first bilateral series. The two-month-long series consists of 4 Tests, 4 ODIs, and 4 T20Is, with the second series to happen from July to September when England plays host to India.
Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021
Once done with their first bilateral series against England, team India will resume preparations for the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League that starts in March before ending in mid-May. For the IPL to be a success, players may have to make do with a reshuffle and must report to their respective camps immediately after the England tour of India.
India Tour of Sri-Lanka
The Limited-Overs Series is next in line for Team India and will take place in Sri Lanka. India’s tour of Sri Lanka comprises of 3-match ODI series and 5 T20s. Upon completion of their Tour in Sri Lanka, they will have to defend their Asia Cup title instead of flying back home. Well, the players can avoid burnout considering Sri Lanka also plays host to the Asia Cup 2021 from June to July.
Tour of Zimbabwe and England
After honoring their Asia Cup 2021 schedule, Zimbabwe will host the Men in Blue for a 3-match ODI series in July. It is after the series that the team travels to England for their second bilateral series as it is part of the World Test Championship. Team India’s tour of England will run from July to September.
South Africa’s visit to India and the T20 World Cup 2021(October-November)
In October, Team India will fly back home and host South Africa for 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is. The series is certainly going to serve as the perfect preparation for the T20 World Cup that commences in October. As hosts of the T20 World Cup 2021, more is expected from the team.
Host to New Zealand and Tour of South Africa
Once the ‘Mega Event’ of 2021 concludes, India will welcome New Zealand to their home turf for 2 Tests and 3 T20Is. The series is scheduled to start in November until mid-December. To conclude their schedule in 2021, Team India will tour South Africa, where they’ll play 3 Tests and 3 T20Is.
Although 2021 is full of cricket events for Team India, many are still optimistic that they will exceed all expectations. After all, they have a pool of professional players to get the job done.
About Author
