The two T20Is between India and Ireland will now begin at 1:30 PM local time, which is 6:00 PM IST. The change is meant to help supporters who also want to watch India’s Women’s T20 World Cup match against Australia, scheduled for June 28 at Lord’s.
An hour earlier than usual
India’s T20 internationals normally start at 7:00 PM IST, so the new timing is an hour earlier. The men’s and women’s games will still overlap to some extent, but the adjustment should make it easier to follow both.
The Lord’s fixture matters a great deal for Harmanpreet Kaur’s team, who must win to stay in the tournament. Interest is expected to be very high, particularly among Indian fans.
Who made the call
Reports suggest Cricket Ireland took the World Cup schedule into account when it fixed the start times. The board is also understood to have talked to India’s broadcaster, Sony Sports, before making the change.
What comes next for India
After the two-match series in Ireland, the men’s team will travel to England for a five-match T20I series starting on July 1. The tour also includes a three-match ODI series, giving India a useful chance to fine-tune their squad.
The rescheduling reflects the growing profile of women’s cricket and efforts by boards to give major matches the widest possible audience.
