England’s multi-format stars could now feature in Test series against New Zealand in June

The final of the Indian Premier League season is set to be brought forward a week in a move that would increase the chances of England’s multi-format stars featuring in the home Test series versus New Zealand.

Although the IPL schedule is yet to be confirmed, the date had been widely reported as June 6 but those involved at the tournament have since been advised that organisers are looking at May 30.

Crucially, that would provide India’s players with an extra week of preparation for the World Test Championship final in the UK on June 18 – which they will make if they avoid defeat to England in Ahmedabad this week.

England stars Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer set to feature in Test series against New Zealand

It would also give the likes of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow and Jofra Archer the chance to face the number one-ranked New Zealanders in the two-Test series that precedes the six-day WTC showpiece.

In contrast to previous years, all England players will remain at the IPL for its duration, which would have all-but ruled out participation against the Black Caps in the event of their franchises reaching the latter stages under the previously mooted dates.

It remains unlikely that anyone involved at the IPL will be considered for England’s first Test of the summer, starting at Lord’s on June 2, but the proposed change would allow for participation in the second at Edgbaston from June 10.

Under the UK’s elite sportsperson exemption, British cricketers can resume training and playing here immediately after returning from overseas if they have been in an organised tournament bubble like the IPL and have tested negative for Covid-19 prior to embarking on their journey.