Indian cricket team departing for the US on May 21, T20 World Cup 2024 preparations

T20 World Cup 2024: Indian squad will depart for the United States of America on 21st May

The Indian players not participating in the IPL playoffs will depart with the initial group © Getty

The Indian cricket team is scheduled to depart for the US on May 21, following the culmination of the IPL league stage.

Those not involved in the IPL playoffs will travel in the first batch, accompanied by all members of Rahul Dravid’s support staff.

The second batch will depart after the IPL final on May 26.

Upon arrival in New York, the team will play three league matches at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium: against Ireland on June 5, Pakistan on June 9, and the USA on June 12.

Practice facilities have been arranged by the ICC, featuring approximately six drop-in practice pitches.

In contrast, the ECB has instructed its players participating in the IPL to return home by May 22.

This directive impacts the availability of many English players for the IPL playoffs due to the impending series against Pakistan.

Rajasthan Royals, currently well-placed for the knockouts, will miss Jos Buttler, while Kolkata Knight Riders, in second place, may be without Phil Salt.

Should Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings advance, they will be without key English players like Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, and Moeen Ali.

Criticism has been directed at the ECB’s decision to recall players before the IPL’s crucial phase.

The truncated availability means players would only participate in two IPL matches post the final before engaging in two T20Is against Pakistan on May 28 and 30.

This decision is met with skepticism, as the English weather in May does not mirror the conditions in the Caribbean, where the World Cup will be held.

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