India Prepares for Sri Lanka Test Series as World Test Championship Action Nears
The upcoming two-match series marks India's entry into the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle, with the first Test set to begin on August 15.
The story
As the dust settles on a quiet period for men's international cricket, attention now turns to India's upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. The Indian side, having completed a three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka XI, is gearing up for a two-Test series, which officially kicks off their 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship campaign.
The first Test is scheduled to commence on August 15 in Galle, followed by the second Test in Colombo from August 23. This series is a crucial red-ball assignment for India as they look to make a strong start in the current WTC cycle.
Elsewhere, Australia is set to host Bangladesh for a two-Test series starting August 12, while England will welcome Pakistan for their own Test series, with the first match beginning August 19. The Ireland versus Afghanistan ODI series also continues with its third match on August 10.
Tables that matter
| Competition | Position | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ICC World Test Championship (2025-2027) | 1. Australia (87.50%), 2. South Africa (75.00%), 3. New Zealand (72.22%), 5. India (48.15%) | Australia currently leads the standings based on percentage of points won. |
| ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings | 1. India (268-275 rating) | India holds the top spot in the latest T20I team rankings. |
| ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings | 1. India (121-124 rating) | India is the top-ranked team in One Day Internationals. |
What we'll be watching
- Sri Lanka vs India: 1st Test, August 15-19, Galle (ICC World Test Championship)
- Australia vs Bangladesh: 1st Test, August 12, Marrara Cricket Ground, Darwin (ICC World Test Championship)
- Ireland vs Afghanistan: 3rd ODI, August 10, Stormont, Belfast
- England vs Pakistan: 1st Test, August 19, Headingley, Leeds (ICC World Test Championship)
- Sri Lanka vs India: 2nd Test, August 23-27, Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo (ICC World Test Championship)
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