Dinesh Karthik Joins England Lions’ Coaching Lineup for India A Challenge

New Delhi: – Former wicket-keeper, batter Dinesh Karthik, who represented India in 94 ODIs, has taken on the role of batting consultant for England Lions, gearing up for a series of matches against India A in Ahmedabad. The tour includes a two-day warm-up match and three four-day matches, aligning with the England men’s Test series against India.

Scheduled to coincide with the first Test in Hyderabad on January 25 and the first half of the second Test in Visakhapatnam on February 2, the England Lions will be in India from January 12 to February 4.

Leading the coaching team is Neil Killeen, England Men’s Elite Pace Bowling Coach, who previously demonstrated his leadership during the Lions’ Sri Lanka tour last year. The coaching lineup features seasoned individuals with a profound understanding of Indian conditions.

Dinesh Karthik, an experienced Indian international wicketkeeper-batter, will share his insights with the squad for the initial nine days of the tour. Mo Bobat, England Men’s Performance Director, expressed satisfaction with the coaching group’s depth and diversity of experiences.

Neil Killeen, having excelled in his prior stint with the Lions, reassumes head coach responsibilities. Notably, former England internationals Ian Bell and Graeme Swann, known for their experiences playing in India, are also part of the coaching staff.

Mo Bobat highlighted the valuable contributions of Ian Bell and Graeme Swann, emphasizing their familiarity with the Lions’ environment. Additionally, Carl Hopkinson and Richard Dawson, with extensive pathway experience and a senior coaching perspective, join the coaching team.

The inclusion of Dinesh Karthik is considered fantastic for the team’s preparation, leading into the first Test. Bobat expressed confidence that the players will benefit from Karthik’s experience in succeeding at the Test level in India.