India likely to field two teams simultaneously as BCCI plans to squeeze more tours before 20-20 WC

The schedule for the Indian team before the start of the 20-20 World Cup 2022 has been made even tighter. The BCCI is reportedly planning to add more white-ball series between India's tour to England and the 20-20 World Cup in October. During their stay in England, India is also scheduled to play a one-off T20 against Ireland.

In India's visit to England, they will play a rescheduled Test match, three ODIs and three T20is. The BCCI is then planning to arrange white-ball series against West Indies and Zimbabwe. They also have Asia Cup to participate in as a practice for the 20-20 World Cup. Bio bubble fatigue will be an issue during this time.

As quoted by the Times of India, a BCCI official revealed about the developments. "The discussions on bio-bubble breaks have already started. Every player has been communicated about the busy itinerary. They have been given time to think about when they would like to take a break. It’s likely a depleted side will travel to Zimbabwe. Ideally, the Asia Cup will be the right tournament to play the first team, in order to get combinations right before the T20 World Cup."

To avoid player fatigue, the BCCI intends to field two teams during this period. The selectors will choose from a pool of 35 players for the rescheduled Test against England and the fixture against Ireland. The two matches will overlap, and two separate teams will compete.

Meanwhile, India is preparing for the bilateral series against Sri Lanka. The three T20Is and two Tests are scheduled to be played in February and March. Lucknow will host the first T20 on the 24th of February. The Test series will begin on the 4th of March.