Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The India Under-19 cricket team is set to embark on a multi-format tour of Sri Lanka, featuring three one-day matches and two four-day “Test” fixtures scheduled between 4 and 23 July, as confirmed by Sri Lanka Cricket. The tour marks another important step in the development pathway for India’s rising young cricketers following their recent success on the global stage.

The India U-19 squad will arrive in Colombo on 30 June before moving to Hambantota for the limited-overs leg of the series. The three 50-over matches are set to be played on 4, 6, and 9 July, providing an early test of skill and adaptability in Sri Lankan conditions. These matches are expected to help both teams assess their emerging talents in the white-ball format ahead of future international assignments.

The ODI series, attention will shift to the longer format as both sides compete in two four-day matches. The first red-ball game will take place in Galle from 13 to 16 July, while the second will be held in Colombo from 20 to 23 July. These fixtures are seen as crucial for developing temperament, technique, and endurance among young players transitioning into multi-day cricket.

This tour comes shortly after India’s strong performance at the Under-19 World Cup, where they emerged champions by defeating England in the final, further highlighting the depth of talent in the squad. The upcoming series will provide selectors and coaches with an opportunity to evaluate bench strength and test players in overseas conditions.

The India U-19 team is also scheduled to tour Australia later in the year. That series will begin with a three-match ODI contest in Rajkot from 18 to 23 September, followed by two four-day matches in Rajkot and Ahmedabad. Together, these tours form a key part of India’s youth development calendar, aimed at preparing players for future senior international duties.