The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced significant changes to the schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 home season, impacting venues for men's and women's international matches, as well as 'A' team fixtures. These revisions involve the West Indies, South Africa and Australia tours of India.
Key Changes in the Test Schedule
The most notable adjustment is the swapping of venues for the Test matches against West Indies and South Africa. The second Test of the West Indies series, initially scheduled to be held at Eden Gardens in Kolkata from October 10-14, 2025, has now been moved to the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. In return, the first Test against South Africa, originally slated for New Delhi from November 14-18, 2025, will now take place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
The decision to move the South Africa Test from Delhi to Kolkata was influenced by concerns regarding the hazardous air quality in Delhi during November, a period coinciding with Diwali festivities. Citing the well-being of players as a priority, the BCCI opted to shift the match to Kolkata, taking into account historical pollution data and potential health risks.
Impact on Women's ODI Series
The schedule changes also affect the India Women's team's ODI series against Australia Women. Due to ongoing outfield renovations at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the three-match series has been relocated. The first two ODIs will now be hosted at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, while the third ODI will be played in Delhi.
Changes to South Africa A Tour
The South Africa A team's tour of India has also seen alterations. While the multi-day matches will proceed as planned at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, the one-day matches have been moved from Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium to the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot.
Revised Schedule Overview
Here’s a summary of the key changes:
Other Important Fixtures
Aside from these changes, the BCCI has confirmed that Guwahati will host its first-ever Test match during the home season, as the venue for the second Test of the South Africa series, commencing on November 22, 2025. India will also tour Australia for three ODIs and five T20Is between the West Indies and South Africa series.
The changes reflect the BCCI's commitment to prioritizing player welfare and ensuring the smooth conduct of international fixtures, taking into account environmental factors and stadium upgrades.
