News for 'test series preparation'

India A set to tour New Zealand for crucial Test series preparation

India A set to tour New Zealand for crucial Test series preparation

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

India A will play three four-day matches against New Zealand A in Christchurch starting October 24, serving as a crucial build-up for the senior Indian team's two-Test series against New Zealand later in the tour. These matches are part of New Zealand Cricket's domestic red-ball schedule.

Bangladesh Face Injury Woes Ahead Of Crucial Australia Test Series

Bangladesh Face Injury Woes Ahead Of Crucial Australia Test Series

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Bangladesh's Test squad for the upcoming series against Australia faces significant challenges with pace spearhead Ebadot Hossain unavailable due to personal reasons and Nahid Rana's participation uncertain due to injury. Despite these setbacks, the team remains optimistic about Litton Das's recovery and the batting unit's ability to perform, as they prepare with an early arrival and warm-up match in Darwin.

'We are ready with every answer': Gambhir's Tells Team Ahead Of Sri Lanka Test Series

'We are ready with every answer': Gambhir's Tells Team Ahead Of Sri Lanka Test Series

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed confidence in his team's readiness for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, starting August 15. Gambhir also welcomed new squad members Saransh Jain and Auqib Nabi, emphasising the team's preparation for their first ICC World Test Championship assignment since a previous home defeat.

Haris Rauf: 'I am trying to put my name forward for the Sri Lanka series'

Haris Rauf: 'I am trying to put my name forward for the Sri Lanka series'

Rediff.com3 days ago

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has expressed his strong desire to play Test cricket, aiming for a spot in the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, as the team grapples with significant struggles in its pace department.

No Practice Games! Australia's Bold Plan For India Tests Next Year

No Practice Games! Australia's Bold Plan For India Tests Next Year

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has announced that the team will forgo traditional practice matches before their upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy Test series in India, opting instead for a short preparatory camp in sub-continental conditions. This strategic decision aims to better acclimatise players for the challenging Indian pitches.

India call up spin quartet to nets ahead of Sri Lanka Tests

India call up spin quartet to nets ahead of Sri Lanka Tests

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Team India has brought in four young Indian spinners - Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Tanush Kotian, and Vipraj Nigam - to assist in net practice ahead of their two-Test series against Sri Lanka, despite already having four spinners in their main squad.

Babar Azam suffers injury scare ahead of England Tests

Babar Azam suffers injury scare ahead of England Tests

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam sustained a hand injury during a warm-up match, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming three-match Test series against England, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27.

Devdutt Padikkal on turning domestic form into Test success

Devdutt Padikkal on turning domestic form into Test success

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal reflects on his Player of the Series performance in Sri Lanka, his preparation against spin and turning domestic form into Test success.

Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test

Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has emphasised the crucial role wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul will play in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, citing his experience and ability to guide younger players.

Marnus Labuschagne backs himself for Australia's No. 3 Test spot

Marnus Labuschagne backs himself for Australia's No. 3 Test spot

Rediff.com2 days ago

Marnus Labuschagne remains confident he is Australia's best No. 3 Test option, despite facing criticism for a prolonged century drought and a recent average of 25.43 since the 2023 Ashes.

Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan prepare for gruelling format switch ahead of Afghanistan series

Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan prepare for gruelling format switch ahead of Afghanistan series

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Indian cricketers Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan discuss the challenges of transitioning directly from the Duleep Trophy final to the T20I series against Afghanistan. Both players emphasise the importance of adaptability and professionalism in managing the demanding schedule and format changes, while also highlighting key player additions to their respective Duleep Trophy teams.

Shubman Gill: Why India Prioritises Player Fitness Over Risk in Test Cricket

Shubman Gill: Why India Prioritises Player Fitness Over Risk in Test Cricket

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India skipper Shubman Gill has shed light on the team's meticulous approach to player fitness, explaining that while constant monitoring is in place, risk-avoiding decisions are sometimes necessary, especially in the demanding format of Test cricket, to protect both the player and the team's long-term interests.

Marnus Labuschagne 'Optimistic' for Bangladesh Tests, Aims to Regain Form

Marnus Labuschagne 'Optimistic' for Bangladesh Tests, Aims to Regain Form

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne is 'extremely optimistic and well-prepared' for the upcoming two-match home Test series against Bangladesh, believing that runs will flow if he trusts his game, despite a recent drought of Test centuries.

Indian Athletics Series Final: A Crucial Test For Asian Games Hopefuls

Indian Athletics Series Final: A Crucial Test For Asian Games Hopefuls

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Almost all of India's Asian Games-bound track and field athletes, including star steeplechaser Avinash Sable and javelin thrower Yashvir Singh, will participate in the Indian Athletics Series Final. This invitational event, featuring a total prize fund of Rs 65 lakh, serves as a crucial tune-up for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, with most of the 77-member squad competing.

Three-hour spin sessions: How Padikkal prepared for Sri Lanka tour

Three-hour spin sessions: How Padikkal prepared for Sri Lanka tour

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal's childhood coach, Mohammad Naseeruddin, revealed the rigorous training regimen the cricketer underwent, including practising with Kookaburra balls on turning pitches, to prepare for the Sri Lankan spin attack ahead of the Test series.

'Masters of the ODI game': Santner wary of Kohli, Rohit

'Masters of the ODI game': Santner wary of Kohli, Rohit

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is preparing for a tough challenge against India's Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the upcoming five-match ODI series. Santner hopes the Indian stalwarts don't dominate on New Zealand pitches as they have in the past. He also discussed the importance of the series for World Cup preparations and the challenges of the two-Test series for a new-look Indian side.

Surrey call-up puts Auqib Nabi on fast track for India's New Zealand Test plans

Surrey call-up puts Auqib Nabi on fast track for India's New Zealand Test plans

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Auqib Nabi's Surrey stint will provide crucial first-class exposure in England as the J&K pacer seeks to strengthen his case for India's Test squad for New Zealand.

'Test cricket is dying'

'Test cricket is dying'

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Former Sri Lankan pacer Chaminda Vaas has called on cricket authorities to actively work towards preserving Test and 50-over formats, warning that they are 'dying' amidst the growing global preference for T20s and franchise leagues.

Arshdeep Singh ready for Test cricket despite fewer first-class games

Arshdeep Singh ready for Test cricket despite fewer first-class games

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh discusses his aspirations for Test cricket, acknowledging his limited first-class appearances but asserting his readiness. He highlights the importance of understanding body mechanics, managing workload, and adapting to various pitch conditions. Arshdeep also touches upon the strong contingent of Punjab players in Indian cricket and his preparations for upcoming international assignments like the T20I series against Afghanistan and the Asian Games.

Will Bumrah Recover In Time For Sri Lanka Tests?

Will Bumrah Recover In Time For Sri Lanka Tests?

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

India's squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka is expected to be announced next week, with fitness concerns surrounding pace leader Jasprit Bumrah.

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is at a critical juncture in his Test career, with his performance in the upcoming Sri Lanka series crucial for his future, especially given his struggles against spin and the presence of Sarfaraz Khan.

Devdutt Padikkal: Not Taking Anything For Granted In Test Cricket

Devdutt Padikkal: Not Taking Anything For Granted In Test Cricket

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal discusses his approach to cementing a place in the Indian Test XI, acknowledging limited opportunities despite his recent back-to-back hundreds in Sri Lanka. He emphasises the importance of consistent performance and his readiness to seize opportunities, drawing insights from conversations with Rahul Dravid.

2nd Test: Gill declares 'Test cricket won' after Sri Lanka's gritty fightback

2nd Test: Gill declares 'Test cricket won' after Sri Lanka's gritty fightback

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Shubman Gill hailed Sri Lanka's gritty resistance after Sonal Dinusha's second century forced India to settle for a draw in the second Test.

India Secures 15 Medals At World Archery Para Series Stage III

India Secures 15 Medals At World Archery Para Series Stage III

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

India concluded its campaign at the World Archery Para Series Stage III with an impressive tally of 15 medals, including four gold, three silver, and eight bronze, finishing second in the overall medal standings. The event served as a crucial preparatory test for the upcoming Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games.

Why Australia A's India Tour Is Crucial For Future Test Prospects

Why Australia A's India Tour Is Crucial For Future Test Prospects

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Australia A has announced a 14-member squad for their upcoming series against India A in Puducherry. The tour, featuring both four-day and one-day matches, is crucial for exposing players to subcontinental conditions and preparing them for future senior team tours to India, including a Test series next year. The squad includes several players with prior international experience.

Gill's India Begin Afghanistan Test Preparations, Bahutule Joins Coaching Staff

Gill's India Begin Afghanistan Test Preparations, Bahutule Joins Coaching Staff

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Team India began preparations for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, with Shubman Gill leading the side and new spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule joining the support staff.

How Sonal Dinusha became India's latest spin nightmare

How Sonal Dinusha became India's latest spin nightmare

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Sri Lankan all-rounder Sonal Dinusha, who averaged 140 in the recent Test series against India, found solace and success in cricket as an escape from financial hardship. His journey, marked by dedication and a relentless work ethic, saw him rise from a child without a bat to a national hero, with coaches highlighting his unwavering commitment to the game.

Dinusha's Unbeaten Century Forces Draw in Colombo, Earns Tendulkar Comparison

Dinusha's Unbeaten Century Forces Draw in Colombo, Earns Tendulkar Comparison

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Sonal Dinusha's magnificent unbeaten 133, including a crucial century-run stand with Keshara Nuwantha, helped Sri Lanka secure a remarkable draw against India in the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

Pant seeks Dhoni's help ahead of Sri Lanka Tour

Pant seeks Dhoni's help ahead of Sri Lanka Tour

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant trained with former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in Ranchi ahead of the challenging Test tour of Sri Lanka.

Team India players report for gruelling fitness Test at CoE Bengaluru

Team India players report for gruelling fitness Test at CoE Bengaluru

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

India's top centrally-contracted cricketers, including Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, underwent mandatory fitness tests at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. These assessments, featuring the Bronco Test, 2k run, and YoYo test, are crucial for the upcoming eight-month home season, which includes series against Afghanistan and West Indies, and the Asian Games.

Sheetal Devi Leads India's Charge At Home Para Archery Series

Sheetal Devi Leads India's Charge At Home Para Archery Series

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

India is hosting its first international para archery event, the third stage of the 2026 Hyundai World Archery Para Series, in Ahmedabad. The competition features 109 archers from 19 countries and serves as a crucial build-up to the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games. World number one Sheetal Devi, along with other top Indian and international archers, will be competing for titles and world ranking points.

Bazball era ends? McCullum SACKED from Test role

Bazball era ends? McCullum SACKED from Test role

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Brendon McCullum's four-year stint as England Test coach has come to an end after the ECB decided to part ways with him.

Pakistan recall Afridi for South Africa Test series

Pakistan recall Afridi for South Africa Test series

Rediff.com10 Oct 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board in a bid to attract more crowds to the Test match have for the first time announced free entry for several enclosures.

KL Rahul Says Galle Win Gives India Confidence Against Spin

KL Rahul Says Galle Win Gives India Confidence Against Spin

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

India's vice-captain KL Rahul expressed his delight at the team's comprehensive 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, stating that the team 'ticked most of the boxes' they had discussed prior to the match and gained significant confidence for future spin-dominated assignments.

Shreyas Iyer stresses importance of game time for Jasprit Bumrah's return

Shreyas Iyer stresses importance of game time for Jasprit Bumrah's return

Rediff.com7 days ago

India T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer has highlighted the importance of regular game time and confidence for Jasprit Bumrah, who is returning from injury ahead of the Afghanistan T20I series, the Asian Games, and the ODI World Cup.

Unconventional Opener Travis Head Ready for India Test Challenge

Unconventional Opener Travis Head Ready for India Test Challenge

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

'We're going to play in a lot of different conditions over the next 12 months. It's going to require different efforts. It may not look like the traditional thing all the time.'

Pakistan Cricket Board set for major shake-up amidst performance concerns

Pakistan Cricket Board set for major shake-up amidst performance concerns

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is poised for a significant overhaul under chairman Mohsin Naqvi, with anticipated changes to the national selection committee and the release of key personnel like Aqib Javed and Wahab Riaz. This comes amidst a losing streak and internal turmoil, prompting radical measures to improve the team's performance and administrative efficiency.

Sarfaraz Khan's Test recall: 17kg weight loss, Kashmir grind and a second chance

Sarfaraz Khan's Test recall: 17kg weight loss, Kashmir grind and a second chance

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Sarfaraz Khan has been recalled to India's Test squad for the two-match away series against Sri Lanka, starting August 15, following an injury to Sai Sudharsan. This recall comes after two years of consistent performance and a significant physical transformation, including shedding 17kg.

Babar Azam reappointed as Test captain for long-term stability: PCB

Babar Azam reappointed as Test captain for long-term stability: PCB

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Senior PCB selector Aaqib Javed has revealed that Shan Masood's leadership and game management issues led to Babar Azam's reinstatement as Pakistan's Test captain. The PCB plans to give Babar a long-term run, backing him for two to three years to bring stability ahead of challenging tours to the West Indies and England.

Manav Suthar's secret to Galle success: Preparation, patience and Jadeja's influence

Manav Suthar's secret to Galle success: Preparation, patience and Jadeja's influence

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Manav Suthar, a left-arm spinner, delivered an exceptional four-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in the first Test, attributing his success to a pre-series training stint at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. His performance, including dismissing Dinesh Chandimal with his first ball, was crucial in keeping the Lankans in check despite a strong partnership. Suthar also highlighted the learning experience from bowling alongside Ravindra Jadeja.