The dates and venues for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, played between India and Australia, early next year were announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India on Friday. The first Test will see Virat Kohli’s men taking on the Steve Smith-led side in Pune from February 23. The second Test will then take place in Bangalore from March 4, followed by the third in Ranchi from March 16. Dharamsala, which is witnessing a lot of cricketing action of late, will host the fourth Test from March 25.

India are also hosting England for a five-Test series beginning on November 9 this year before they welcome Australia. A long home season will end with a one-off Test against Bangladesh following the Australia series. India have begun their home season well by beating New Zealand 3-0 in the Test series. The ODI series between the two teams is currently tied 1-1.