Star Indian batter KL Rahul is set to arrive in England on June 3, a strategic move aimed at providing him crucial acclimatisation time before India’s challenging five-match Test series against England, which commences the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for the Men in Blue.
Rahul is expected to feature in the second unofficial Test between India A and England Lions, scheduled to begin on June 6 in Northampton after India A’s first game against the Lions starting May 30 in Canterbury. His inclusion in the “A” side is a clear indication from the team management to ensure he gets valuable match practice in English conditions, especially after his recent involvement in the IPL.
The upcoming Test series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, is India’s first assignment in the 2025-27 WTC cycle. With a demanding schedule ahead, which includes a total of 18 Tests across three home and three away series in this cycle, getting players like Rahul settled and in form early on is paramount for India’s aspirations. His performance in the practice game will be keenly watched by selectors as India look to start their WTC campaign on a strong note.