Why Did Team India Stop the Intra-Squad Match Early? Here's the Likely Reason Behind the Sudden Wrap-Up

Team India's 4-day intra-squad match, scheduled from June 13 to June 16, unexpectedly ended a day early. The abrupt conclusion after just 3 days has sparked curiosity and speculation: Was it planned? Was something wrong?

While the BCCI has not given any official explanation, some clear indicators and behind-the-scenes decisions seem to explain the early closure.


BCCI Hinted at the End With a Post

After Day 3, the BCCI posted on social media:

“Wrap up in Beckenham.”

Accompanied by match photos, this was the first public clue that the practice game had been concluded early, though no reason was cited.


Kuldeep Yadav's Press Conference — Another Clue

According to the BCCI’s pre-match plan, a player or support staff would only address the media when the match concludes.
On Day 3, Kuldeep Yadav held a press conference — strongly suggesting that the team had officially called off the match.


So, Why End the Match Early?

There is no official statement yet, but the most likely reason is strategic:

  • Team management got the answers they needed.
    Intra-squad games are used to assess form, fitness, and readiness — not for entertainment or statistics.

  • Strong performances already gave clarity.
    With players like Shardul Thakur scoring a century, and bowlers getting good game time, coaches may have seen enough to finalize plans for the England series starting June 20.

  • Workload management could also be a factor.
    Since several senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have retired from Tests, the new-look squad likely needs careful physical management before a long 5-match Test series.