The India men’s cricket team is set to embark on a highly anticipated five-Test series against England in 2025, spanning from June 20 to August 4. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the schedule on August 22, revealing an exciting lineup of fixtures and venues for this much-awaited tour.
The series will commence at Headingley in Leeds on June 20. This opening match will follow the World Test Championship 2023-25 final, which is scheduled to be held in London. The series will then proceed to four other prominent venues: Edgbaston in Birmingham, where the second Test will be played from July 2-6; Lord's in London, hosting the third Test from July 10-14; Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester for the fourth Test from July 23-27; and The Kia Oval in London, which will be the venue for the fifth and final Test from July 31 to August 4.
This tour marks the first time India will be engaging in a bilateral Test series in England since their previous visit in 2021-22. During that series, India, led by Virat Kohli, had secured a 2-1 lead before the final Test was rescheduled and played in 2022. The rescheduled match ended in a defeat for India under the captaincy of Jasprit Bumrah, allowing England to equalize the series. This series will thus offer a fresh opportunity for India to assert its prowess in English conditions.
In addition to the men’s series, the India women’s cricket team will also be touring England. They are scheduled to play five T20 Internationals and three One Day Internationals, adding further excitement to the cricketing summer in England.
England will kick off their home summer with a one-off Test against Zimbabwe, starting May 22 at Trent Bridge. This will be Zimbabwe’s first Test match in England since 2003. The return of Zimbabwe is considered a significant event and underscores the ECB’s commitment to promoting and nurturing the Test format globally.
Richard Gould, the ECB’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the forthcoming series. He stated, “India touring is always a major attraction and a highlight of any cricketing summer. The last Men’s Test series here was incredibly close, and I’m confident that next year’s series will be just as thrilling. Our women’s series are known for their competitive nature, and we’re also excited to welcome both West Indies teams for the white ball series.”
On the topic of Zimbabwe’s return, Gould added, “Welcoming Zimbabwe back for a Men’s Test Match is a historic moment, more than two decades after their last visit. Test cricket holds a special place in this country, and we recognize our role in supporting developing Test cricketing nations to ensure the format’s continued vitality and global growth.”
The most recent five-Test series between India and England took place in 2023 in India. During that series, England’s innovative ‘Bazball’ approach faced significant resistance from the Indian team, which eventually led to a decisive 4-1 series win for India. The upcoming 2025 series promises to be another gripping chapter in the rich history of India-England cricket encounters.
