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India A’s upcoming tour of Australia is set to kick off on October 31, strategically positioned just before the senior Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 series starting November 22. This unofficial series serves a dual purpose: it provides invaluable exposure to Australian conditions for emerging Indian cricketers and acts as a warm-up to help them refine their skills in a demanding environment.
India A will play two four-day matches in Mackay and Melbourne, followed by a three-day intra-squad game in Perth against the senior India team. These matches not only prepare the India A players but also offer insights into the adaptability and mental resilience required to succeed on Australian pitches, which are known for their unique bounce and pace.
Ruturaj Gaikwad leads a promising India A squad with high hopes
Captained by the dynamic Ruturaj Gaikwad, the India A squad includes rising stars like Sai Sudharsan, Ishan Kishan and vice-captain Abhimanyu Easwaran, adding depth to both batting and leadership. The squad selection underscores the BCCI’s emphasis on nurturing young talent with a blend of seasoned players.
Gaikwad’s captaincy is viewed as crucial due to his calm demeanor and experience, while Sudharsan and Kishan provide firepower in the top and middle order, critical for adapting to Australian conditions. Easwaran’s technical prowess will be closely observed, especially as he also features in the senior Test squad for the BGT.
Key Players: Testing grounds for Border-Gavaskar aspirants
The India A squad’s composition highlights strategic choices, especially with Easwaran and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy being included in both the India A and senior Test squads. This dual representation not only reflects their potential but also provides a seamless transition if they are called up for the BGT series. Easwaran, a technically sound opener, could fill vital roles in the Test side if needed, while Nitish Reddy’s all-round capabilities add balance.
Meanwhile, Navdeep Saini, a quick bowler known for his raw pace, returns to Australia after his Test debut during India’s memorable 2020-21 series win. Saini, who played through injury in that series, will be eager to make an impact and secure his spot as a standby pacer for the Test series. His performances in Mackay and Melbourne will be watched closely, as his ability to consistently bowl at high speeds could make him a valuable asset should any injuries arise in the senior bowling lineup.
Also READ: 3 reasons why Abhimanyu Easwaran’s selection for Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is a smart move by India
Australia A’s squad and top-order showdown for Future Test Stars
Australia A has put together a squad with a clear focus on finding future Test top-order contenders. The batting line-up includes Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris and Sam Konstas, who are all in contention for potential openings in the senior Test team. Bancroft brings a blend of experience and determination, having previously played in high-stakes situations, while Harris, known for his aggressive play, will be aiming to make his mark. Konstas is a standout for selectors and is likely to face increased responsibility, especially as Australia evaluates their future top-order options. Additionally, Australia A’s captain Nathan McSweeney is also a crucial cricketer for their side.
Australia A vs India A 2024: Complete schedule and fixture details
| Date | Match | Venue | IST | GMT | Local Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, 31 Oct – Sun, 03 Nov 2024 | 1st Unofficial Test | Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay | 5:30 AM | 12:00 AM | 10:00 AM |
| Thu, 07 Nov – Sun, 10 Nov 2024 | 2nd Unofficial Test | Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne | 5:00 AM | 11:30 PM | 10:30 AM |
Squads:
Australia A:
- Captain: Nathan McSweeney
- Players: Cameron Bancroft, Scott Boland, Jordan Buckingham, Cooper Connolly, Ollie Davies, Brendan Doggett, Marcus Harris, Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Michael Neser, Todd Murphy, Fergus O’Neill, Jimmy Peirson, Josh Philippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Beau Webster
India A:
- Captain: Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Vice-Captain: Abhimanyu Easwaran
- Players: Sai Sudharsan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Devdutt Padikkal, Ricky Bhui, Baba Indrajith, Ishan Kishan (wk), Abishek Porel (wk), Mukesh Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Yash Dayal, Navdeep Saini, Manav Suthar, Tanush Kotian
Broadcast & live streaming details
Indian fans keen to follow the India A series will be able to stream all matches live through select online channels, as there are no official broadcasters covering the series in India. Cricket Australia’s official website, cricket.com.au, and the CA Live app will offer reliable and high-quality streams, making the games accessible despite the lack of local broadcasting. Additionally, fans can stay updated with real-time scores through Fancode, which will provide live score updates to keep viewers engaged throughout the series.
In Australia, Kayo Sports and Fox Cricket (501) will offer live streaming of the series, giving local audiences access to every moment of the action. These platforms will cater to a wide viewership across the country, bringing the excitement of the India A series to screens nationwide. The much-anticipated intra-squad match between India A and the senior Indian team in Perth is designed to be a private session focused on match-specific preparations. This closed-door game, intended solely for the teams’ tactical readiness, will not have any live coverage or fan attendance, allowing players to prepare undistracted for the upcoming challenges of the BGT series.
