The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has unveiled the schedule for the cricket-packed summer of 2025, promising an exhilarating season as both the men’s and women’s teams are set to host high-stake series, including much-anticipated matches against India. The detailed itinerary comprises a series of Test matches, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), highlighting England’s comprehensive plans to cater to cricket aficionados.
For the men’s team, the prestigious five-match Test series against India is slated to span from June 20 to August 4. This pivotal series will commence in Leeds, adding historical significance and anticipation to the opening match. Following Leeds, the second Test is scheduled to take place in Birmingham starting July 2. The iconic Lord’s will host the third Test beginning July 10, continuing its tradition as a cornerstone of English cricket. The competition will then move to Manchester with the fourth Test, eventually concluding with the fifth Test at The Oval.
In parallel, the England women’s team is set to engage in a highly competitive series with the Indian women’s team, consisting of three T20Is and three ODIs. The women’s series will begin slightly later, from June 28 to July 22. The T20Is will be fiercely contested with matches in Nottingham (June 28), Bristol (July 1), The Oval (July 4), Manchester (July 9), and Birmingham (July 12). The ODIs are scheduled for July 16 in Southampton, July 19 at the prestigious Lord’s, and July 22 in Chester-le-Street.
The India tour will not be the only international cricket action in England during the summer. Preceding the much-awaited India series, the West Indies will visit England for a series of matches. Both the men’s and women’s teams will participate in three ODIs and three T20Is each, setting a competitive tone early in the season. This series aims to amplify the intensity and excitement among fans before the Indian contingent arrives.
Adding to the early summer’s excitement, Zimbabwe is set to make a return to English soil for the first time since 2003.
. This tour will feature a historic four-day Test match, which is planned to take place at Trent Bridge from May 22. This represents a significant opportunity for both teams to showcase their talents in what promises to be a significant and memorable encounter.
As summer winds down, the England men’s team will face another formidable opponent, South Africa, starting from September 2 to September 14. This final segment of the summer will consist of three ODIs and three T20Is, offering fans more exhilarating cricket before the season concludes. Additionally, England’s cricket journey in 2025 will extend across borders as they plan to visit Ireland. This trip will include three ODIs scheduled for September 17, 19, and 21.
Reflecting on the upcoming schedule, ECB CEO Richard Gould expressed his enthusiasm: “Staging England Men’s and England Women’s series alongside each other has proved to be incredibly popular with fans and has significantly supported the growth of the women’s game. The success of last year’s Ashes and this year’s Pakistan series stands testament to this approach. We are excited to replicate this success with the West Indies and India series next year. Cricket fans are in for a real treat, and I hope they’ll come out in force to support both the men’s and women’s sides.”
Gould also highlighted the immense draw of the India series, noting, “India touring is always a big draw and a highlight of any cricket summer. The last men’s Test series here was a nailbiter, and I’m sure next year’s clash will be just as exciting. Our women’s series with India is always fiercely competitive. I’m delighted to say we will also welcome both West Indies teams back for white-ball series next year, following this year’s thrilling men’s Test series.”
Moreover, cricket history will be made in 2026 when India women are set to return to England for the first-ever women’s Test at Lord’s, a landmark moment for the sport.
In conclusion, the summer of 2025 promises to be a blockbuster season filled with high-intensity matches, bringing together top-tier cricketing nations in a series of exciting contests that will enthrall fans and invigorate the English cricket scene.