Virat Kohli-led India to depart for England tour earlier than expected?

Mumbai: Virat Kohli-led India will embark on a long tour to England after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in May, as they continue their preparation towards the ICC World Cup next year.

The No 1 ranked Test side recently lost a three-match series to South Africa 2-1 in the rainbow nation, but bounced back to win the ODI series 5-1.

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However, it has been reported that Virat Kohli’s men could leave for England earlier than expected, in order to get more preparation-time.

“One thing is certain. If the Indian team had spent at least 10 days in South Africa before the first Test, it would have made a lot of difference to the end result. The team is determined that each player gets enough time and exposure in England before the actual series begins,” a BCCI official was quoted saying to Times of India.

“The idea is to park more and more players in England and ensure that the cricketers are ready for the entire series. With England also scheduled to host the 50-over World Cup next year, this tour is very important for us,” the source added.

The Men in Blue are currently preparing themselves for a three-match T20 series against the JP Duminy-led South Africa, with the first T20 on Sunday.

India are scheduled to play three T20s, three ODIs and five Tests in England between July and September.