The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced a provisional home schedule for 2021 on Wednesday with a five-match Test series against India set to headline the English summer.

The board also announced plans to get crowds back into the stadiums.

The matches against India are scheduled for August-September.

Earlier this year, England hosted Pakistan and the West Indies in twin Test series behind closed doors, before welcoming Australia for a series of limited overs matches.

The ECB now seems eager for the return of fans into the stadiums depending on the Covid-19 situation.

“We had an amazing summer of international cricket this year with some memorable performances…,” ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison said in a statement.

“Next year we’ve got another big international programme to look forward to, with the thrill of a five-Test series against India as the centrepiece…”

Much to the delight of cricket fans craving for live action, the CEO added: “…while Covid-19 means there’s still a great deal of uncertainty, we really hope to be able to welcome fans back into the grounds safely next year to bring that unique atmosphere to stadia across the country.”

The Test series against India is due to conclude the men’s international summer. It is scheduled to get underway on August 4 at Trent Bridge, followed by matches at Lord’s, Headingley and The Oval, before finishing up in Manchester on September 14.

During their last tour of the country in 2018, Virat Kohli’s India lost the Test series 1-4.

The English summer will begin with tours by Sri Lanka and Pakistan.