India A will undertake a shadow tour of New Zealand ahead of the senior team’s multi-format series in the country, with the itinerary comprising three List A matches and two first-class games, which may include some players from the national Test team.

The India A assignment is expected to serve as a preparation platform for players in contention for the senior team, with some first-team cricketers likely to be included in the squad to gain valuable match practice in New Zealand conditions ahead of the marquee series.

The tour schedule consists of three 50-over games followed by two first-class ‘Tests’, allowing the team management to assess both red-ball and white-ball options ahead of senior team engagements.

Meanwhile, India’s Test team is likely to leave for the Sri Lanka tour on August 4 or 5.

The team is expected to play a practice match against Sri Lanka Board President’s XI from August 8 as part of its acclimation program ahead of the opening Test starting on August 15.

The preparation program is aimed at helping the players adjust to the local conditions before the start of the two-match Test series.

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