He Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have announced Indian team men’s team for the upcoming test series against South Africa. The first Test of the India-South Africa series will be held at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata from November 14, followed by the second and final Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati from November 22.
Rishabh Pant makes long-awaited return as vice-captain
India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman RISHABH PANTS has made a long-awaited return to the proving ground. Pant, who has also been reinstated as vice-captain, replaces Prasidh Krishna in the team that featured in India’s previous Test series against the West Indies.
The selection, led by Ajit Agarkar, marks Pant’s first Test call-up since his injury in July earlier this year. The left-hander had missed the final Test of the England series and the subsequent home series against the West Indies due to a foot fracture sustained during the Manchester Test. His inclusion indicates India’s confidence in his fitness and readiness to resume high-intensity international cricket.
Pant’s injury occurred when he attempted a reverse sweep against Chris wakes up in the fourth test against England. Although he initially suffered pain, his decision to continue aggravated the injury, keeping him sidelined for several months. His determination, however, shone through during his rehabilitation phase, which culminated in a successful comeback with India A.
Leading India Against South Africa A In Bengaluru, Pant scored a winning 90 in the second innings, guiding his team to a three-wicket victory. His fluid stroke, combined with precise ground handling, reassured the selectors about his form and fitness. Pant will also lead India A in the unofficial second Test starting on November 6, where he will continue to test his stamina ahead of the main series.
Team balance and key inclusions
The 15-member team has a balanced combination of youth and experience. Next to the captain Shubman Gillthe first order characteristics Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahuland Sai Sudharsan – a mix of style, stability and consistency. Pant is likely to occupy the crucial number 5 spot, providing the middle-order with his trademark aggressive touch.
Dhruv Trevally He retains his place as back-up goalkeeper after impressive seasons against England and the West Indies. In the comprehensive department, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundarand Axar Patel offer India depth and variety in effects, while reddy nitish Add a seam bowling option to the mix.
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The bowling attack looks formidable, with spearhead pace Jasprit Bumrah leading the line, supported by Mohammed Siraj and the promising Deep Akash. Left Arm Wrist Spinner Kuldeep Yadav completes the lineup, giving India a potent spin option for conditions that could aid spin.
Krishna and N Jagadeesan are the major omissions from the previous test setup, while the veteran pacer Mohamed Shami continues to miss out despite stellar domestic performances from Bengal, where he has claimed 15 wickets in three matches at an impressive average of 15.53.
India Test Team for South Africa Series: Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (WK) (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep
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