New Delhi, Aug 5: Fresh off a dramatic 2-2 series draw in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, capped by a nail-biting six-run victory at The Oval, the Indian men’s cricket team has little time to rest as it braces for a packed and challenging calendar for the remainder of 2025.
While the series in England was an emotional rollercoaster—one that saw heroic performances, tense finishes, and the revival of Test cricket’s true essence—it was only the beginning of an intense run for Rohit Sharma’s men. From continental battles in the desert to old rivalries down under, and the return of marquee names to the squad, here’s how India’s cricketing roadmap unfolds through the rest of the year.
Bangladesh Tour Called Off Amid Diplomatic Strain
India were initially scheduled to tour Bangladesh in August for three ODIs and as many T20Is. However, that series has now been shelved. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made the announcement in July, citing “scheduling convenience for both teams” as the official reason.
But reports from Cricbuzz suggest otherwise. The cancellation comes against the backdrop of increasingly strained bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries, hinting at political friction influencing cricketing ties. It’s a rare but significant instance of diplomacy intervening in the sport.
Asia Cup 2025: Green Light Amid Indo-Pak Tensions
There was a cloud of uncertainty looming over the 2025 Asia Cup due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. At one point, the tournament looked to be in serious jeopardy. However, cricket has prevailed—at least for now.
Set to be played in the United Arab Emirates in September, the Asia Cup has been confirmed, with India retaining its hosting rights despite the overseas venue. Notably, the tournament will return to the T20I format this year, serving as a crucial preparation ground for the ICC T20 World Cup in 2026.With a balanced group stage, the eyes of the world will be particularly fixed on the Indo-Pak clash on September 14—a match that continues to define subcontinental cricketing drama.
West Indies Tour of India: Test Cricket Returns to Indian Soil
October will see the return of the West Indies to Indian shores for a two-Test series—the first such tour in seven years. India last hosted the Caribbean side for Tests in 2018, comfortably winning that series 2-0.
More importantly, this series will mark the beginning of India’s home Test campaign in the new 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. After the high-octane finish in England, the West Indies series is expected to provide India with an opportunity to recalibrate and strategise for the long WTC road ahead.
Australia Tour: ODIs and T20Is in the Spotlight
No rest for the weary, as India will head straight to Australia in late October for a limited-overs assignment. The tour comprises three ODIs and five T20Is, rekindling a fierce rivalry that has defined modern cricket.
This trip comes hot on the heels of the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which India played earlier in the year. The white-ball leg, however, promises to offer a different kind of thrill.
Speculation is rife that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma—both of whom were selectively rested during parts of the English summer—will return for the ODI leg in Australia, much to the delight of fans and broadcasters alike.
India and Australia last met in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy, a match India edged by four wickets before going on to lift the title. Revenge, redemption, and rivalry—this series has it all.
South Africa’s Full-Tour to End the Year
India’s final assignment for 2025 will be a comprehensive home series against South Africa, spanning two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, scheduled across November and December.
This tour will offer fans a complete cricketing experience across formats. The last time the two nations squared off was in November 2024, when India claimed a 3-1 victory in a four-match T20I series. The Proteas will be keen to return the favour this time around.
For India, it will also be the perfect platform to assess bench strength, experiment with young talents, and settle combinations heading into the 2026 ICC tournaments. With home advantage and momentum on their side, India will aim to finish the year on a high.
A Testing Road Ahead
The remainder of 2025 will test India’s depth, durability, and strategic acumen across formats and continents. As the team juggles the balance between resting key players and blooding new talent, selectors and management will have their task cut out.
From political challenges affecting tours to high-voltage cricketing encounters in the Gulf, the subcontinent, and Down Under—India’s cricketing calendar mirrors the complexities and excitement that come with being a powerhouse in world cricket.With the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy now in the rearview mirror, the road ahead is packed, pressure-laden, and promising in equal measure.
Brace yourself. The Men in Blue are just getting started. (Agencies)