Sony Sports will telecast all three four-day India A matches in New Zealand, with the broadcaster also taking on production duties for the games. This marks an unprecedented arrangement for India A tour matches played in New Zealand, representing a notable step forward in the coverage of India's second-string side on overseas assignments. Sony Sports holds the India broadcasting rights for cricket in New Zealand, which has made this arrangement possible.
The three matches are scheduled from October 24 to 27, October 31 to November 3, and November 7 to 10. Indian viewers can follow the action from 3:30 AM IST for each game. The India A team departed Bengaluru for New Zealand on October 18, several days ahead of the opening match.
The series runs alongside the senior India tour of New Zealand, which features five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests beginning October 22. The India A fixtures provide a parallel red-ball programme that gives fringe players extended competitive exposure in New Zealand conditions ahead of the senior side's Test assignments.
Where will the India A matches be played?
The first four-day match will be held at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln from October 24 to 27. The second match moves to Hagley Oval in Christchurch, scheduled from October 31 to November 3. The third and final game returns to Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, running from November 7 to 10.
Both venues are established first-class grounds in New Zealand. Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln hosts two of the three fixtures, while Hagley Oval in Christchurch provides a different setting for the middle match of the series. All three games begin at 3:30 AM IST for viewers in India, meaning fans will need to tune in through the early morning hours to catch live play.
Who is in the India A squad and support staff for New Zealand?
Dhruv Jurel will captain the India A side in New Zealand. The squad includes prominent names such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Kumar, and Sai Sudharsan, giving the touring party considerable depth and experience across batting and bowling departments.
The support staff accompanying the team features Hrishikesh Kanitkar as batting coach, Laxmipathy Balaji as pace bowling coach, and Sunil Joshi as spin bowling coach. Physio Thulasi and trainer Harrsha are also part of the touring group. The Centre of Excellence staff will oversee team assignments in New Zealand, and support staff from the Asian Games have also been included in the setup.
