Indian cricket fans have been deprived of live international games in 2020, particularly after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year. However, things could be completely different in 2021 according to a news report which lists out the hectic 2021 schedule ahead of the men’s cricket team.
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It’s worth pointing out that the Indian men’s team hasn’t played cricket since March, though the recently concluded Indian Premier League brought back some much-needed cricket for the fans as well as the players.
Team India is currently in Australia for a limited-overs and test series which starts on November 27 in Sydney with the first ODI. The 2021 schedule suggests that this won’t be the last of India’s tours in the next few months.
A report from Inside Sport goes on to say that the Indian men’s cricket team is likely to be in action almost every month in 2021 given the kind of schedule that is being planned. Indian cricketers will also play in the 2021 edition of the IPL which is expected to be conducted between the March-May timeframe.
Overall, the Indian men’s cricket team will reportedly play 14 tests, 16 one-day internationals, and 23 T20 internationals between January and December 2021.
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“We understand it will be tough on the players but we are obligated to honour FTP commitments. We have a bigger pool of talent now and players. We’ll make sure players get ample rest before called in for India duties. Rotation policy will surely come into play,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport.
Team India’s Expected 2021 Schedule:
January-March:- England is expected to make the trip to India for a long series comprising of four tests, four ODIs, and four T20Is. Though the location hasn’t been determined yet, it is likely that the series may be played in the UAE if the COVID-19 situation in India persists.
March-May:- The 14th edition of the IPL is expected to be conducted between this time period. Though the BCCI hopes to host the tournament in India, there have been rumours of this tournament being conducted in the UAE as well.
June-July:- India will head over to Sri Lanka for three ODIs and five T20Is which will then be capped off by the Asia Cup.
August-September:- Team India will travel to England in July for a recently announced series which will consist of five test matches beginning in August. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has hinted that spectators may be allowed in this series.
Early October-November:- India will host South Africa for three ODIs and five T20Is ahead of the World T20. India will also conduct the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup between October and November.
November-December:- This is when India is expected to welcome New Zealand for two test matches and three T20Is. This will also likely be the last home games for India in the calendar year.
December 2021 - January 2022:- India is expected to close out the year with a tour of South Africa playing a total of three tests and three T20Is.
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