While the India vs England Test series has captured the attention of cricket fans, there's a behind-the-scenes aspect that often sparks curiosity—what exactly do cricketers eat during lunch and tea breaks in a Test match? After 4 Tests (20 days of play), that's 20 lunch breaks and 20 tea breaks per team. But is the food the same for both squads? Or do Team India and Team England follow different diets?

Insights From the Insiders

In a candid conversation with BBC Sports, former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta and former England captain Alastair Cook gave a peek into the food culture inside the dressing rooms.

What’s on Team India’s Plate?

According to Deep Dasgupta:

• The Indian team often travels with personal cooks.

• Players now focus more on high-protein and high-carb diets.

• There’s a noticeable increase in fried food consumption in recent years.

• The menus are customized, with dishes aligned to each player’s fitness and dietary needs.

• Indian meals during breaks may include grilled meats, dal, paneer, rice, and sometimes traditional dishes like butter chicken—but with a healthier twist.

Dasgupta adds:
"Nutrition has become a major focus. There’s been a shift in how food is approached. Players are balancing taste and performance."

What Fuels Team England?

Alastair Cook shared a more relaxed view on England’s dressing room meals:

• The menu is flexible, and players pick what suits them best.

• During breaks, players eat light—like sandwiches, pasta, or energy bars.

• The main meal is after the day’s play, which can include comfort food like pizza or chicken wings to refuel after long sessions.

Cook revealed:
"You’ll often see players digging into a box of chicken wings after stumps. It’s all about recovery and enjoyment too."

Same Table, Different Taste?

While both teams have access to similar hospitality facilities, their culinary preferences and nutritional strategies differ. Team India prefers a more curated, health-oriented spread, often with their chefs or dieticians in control. England players enjoy a more laid-back approach, with some freedom to indulge.