Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has been appointed batting consultant for England Lions’ ‘A’ tour of India starting January 12. Apart from Karthik, veteran England spinner Graeme Swann has been named as the team’s mentor, while England batsman Ian Bell will be named as the team’s other batting consultant. England men’s elite bowling coach Neil Killeen has been named head coach of the team for the tour against India A.

Dinesh Karthik will be there with the England Lions from January 10-18. All matches will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Dinesh Karthik to work with England Lions for upcoming ‘A’ tour of India

England men’s performance director Mo Bobat said in a statement: “It is fantastic to have such a strong coaching group supporting our players in what should be an exciting challenge against India A. The group has a deep and diverse set of experiences and knowledge.

“Neil Killeen did an excellent job leading the Lions in Sri Lanka last year and will once again take on head coaching responsibilities.

“Likewise, Ian Bell and Graeme Swann have spent time in our Lions environments over the past year and will be well placed to continue supporting the players, many of whom they already know well. They both bring fantastic experiences to their respective coaching and mentoring roles.

“Carl Hopkinson and Richard Dawson have extensive experience along the way and bring with them a senior England coaching perspective and recent experience in Indian conditions.

“And it’s great to have Dinesh Karthik with us for part of our preparation period and before the first Test. I am sure the boys will love spending time with him and benefit from his experience on what it takes to be successful in Tests in India.”

More to continue…