Cricket enthusiasts brace yourselves, as an exciting clash unfolds this week with England’s dynamic Bazball strategy taking on India’s spin maestros in the inaugural Test of a thrilling five-match series.
Team Records on the Line
As the series kicks off in Hyderabad, both teams enter the arena with impressive Test records from the previous year. England notched up two series victories and two draws in 2023, while India remained unbeaten with three series wins and a draw.
Debut and Returns in Focus
For the English side, Lancashire’s Tom Hartley gears up for his Test debut, accompanied by the return of Ben Foakes as the wicketkeeper. However, the hosts face a challenge with Virat Kohli absent for the first two Tests, replaced by Rajat Patidar.
Match Schedule: India vs. England
The clash unfolds at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad from Thursday, Jan. 25, to Monday, Jan. 29. Play commences daily at 9:30 a.m. IST in India, translating to 4 a.m. GMT in the UK, 3 p.m. AEDT in Australia, and 11 p.m. ET or 8 p.m. PT in the US on Wednesday, Jan. 24.
Watching Strategies: India vs. England, 1st Test
1. Using a VPN for Global Access
If local viewing is a challenge, employing a VPN becomes a handy solution. Beyond accessing the game, a VPN safeguards against ISP speed throttling, making it essential for privacy when connected to public Wi-Fi networks.
2. Legalities of VPN Usage
Watching or streaming sports with a VPN remains legal in countries where VPNs are permitted, ensuring you have a valid subscription to the streaming service. Proper setup is crucial to prevent any disruptions due to blackout restrictions imposed by streaming platforms.
Streaming Options for Global Audiences
1. Livestream in the US
Catch the action live on the dedicated cricket streaming service, Willow TV.
2. Free Streaming in India
Indian viewers can watch the Test on Sports 18, available for free on JioCinema’s OTT platform.
3. UK Viewership
In the UK, the series airs exclusively on Sky Sports Cricket. Sky Go app allows streaming for existing Sky Sports subscribers, while cord-cutters can opt for a Now account and a Now Sports membership.
4. Down Under Streaming
For Australian fans, Foxtel and Kayo showcase the first Test on their platforms.
Tips for Smooth Streaming with a VPN
Navigating through different variables like ISP, browser, streaming provider, and VPN, here are some quick tips for an optimal streaming experience:
- If your desired location isn’t a default option, utilize the search feature.
- Ensure your streaming service account reflects the correct viewing area.
- For smart TVs without VPN apps, install the VPN on your router or mobile hotspot.
- VPN providers offer instructions for router installation.
- Use a privacy-first browser like Brave to avoid location exposure.
Embrace the cricket fever and witness the clash of titans as India and England kick off their Test series. Whether you’re in the US, UK, Australia, or beyond, these strategies ensure you don’t miss a moment of the action.
