The Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI), together with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), have announced dates for the much-awaited series between the two sides. After a year that was overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Team India will now play two bilateral series against England in 2021.
Well, this is part of their hectic cricket schedule in 2021, with the year promising to be full of activities from January to December. A total of 17 matches including, 4-ODIs, 4-T20s, and 9-Tests, will take place during the 2-bilateral series. Here are some of the things you need to know about the 2-bilateral series between India and England in 2021.
England Tour of India 2021
England’s tour of India serves as the first assignment for the Men in Blue after the enforcement of the COVID-19 break to curb the spread of the virus. Initially, the two were to meet in the limited-overs leg of the series (September-October 2020) only for the COVID-pandemic to force its postponement. The test series will start in Chennai from February 2, with the rest of the series taking place in Ahmedabad, where the rebuilt Motera stadium will host a day-night Test.
The series between the two sides starts with the 4-match Test series for the Anthony de Mello Trophy. Even though Chennai will play host to the first two tests, the third and fourth tests are set to take place in Ahmedabad. As per the BCCI, Ahmedabad will turn to turn pink when hosting the third test on 24th February under the lights.
After an iconic Test under the lights, England’s tour of India will continue with the 5-match T20I series, which will also take place in Ahmedabad. The final leg of their tour will feature 3-ODIs from March 23-28, with Pune playing host.
India Tour of England 2021 (July-September)
India’s tour of England in 2021 is scheduled to take place from July to September, and it will entail a five-match test series. The five-match India vs England series is part of the World Test Championship, thus explaining why it is of great importance to the Men in Blue. More about India’s tour of England will be made available later on in the coming year.
Health and Safety of Players
India, just like the rest of the world, is still trying to deal with the threat posed by COVID-19. For this reason, the health and safety of players, officials, and support staff is one of the biggest priorities. And the Indian Cricket Board is precisely going to ensure they follow all COVID-19 safety protocols to the letter. However, it is not yet clear whether or not fans can turn up at the venues.
In Conclusion
England’s tour of India is the first bilateral series at home after the postponement of all cricket activities in the country. And this is even better since England will be the first team to play at the magnificent Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.