The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled India's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against South Africa, featuring significant changes and notable selections. The most prominent news from the announcement is the return of star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who makes his comeback to international cricket after recovering from a significant injury, while young batting sensation Shubman Gill has been handed the captaincy, while Pant will serve as his deputy, marking a new leadership dynamic for the team. However, the selection has once again sparked debate as veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami has been omitted, raising questions about his future in the Test setup.
Rishabh Pant's Triumphant Return and Leadership Role
Rishabh Pant's inclusion in the Indian Test squad for the South Africa series marks a highly anticipated return after his recovery from an injury sustained during the England series. His comeback is a significant boost for the team, bringing back his aggressive batting style and experienced wicketkeeping skills to the middle order. Previously, N Jagadeesan had filled his spot during the West Indies series, but Pant's full recovery sees him reclaim his rightful place. Beyond his playing role, Pant has also been appointed as the vice-captain, a clear indication of the selectors' faith in his leadership abilities and his importance to the team's strategic planning. Alongside Shubman Gill, Pant is expected to provide a dynamic and youthful leadership core. Despite Pant's return, young wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel has successfully retained his spot in the squad, suggesting a strong emphasis on developing a solid pool of talent for the future.
Mohammed Shami's Persistent Oversight
For the second consecutive time, the Indian selectors have opted to exclude experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami from the Test squad for the South Africa tour, a decision that has drawn considerable scrutiny, while shami last played an international match for India in March 2025 and was notably absent from the squad for the Australia tour as well. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had previously raised concerns about Shami's fitness in a public forum, to which. Shami had responded strongly, asserting his full fitness post-ankle surgery and his readiness to play across all formats. To further back his claims, Shami delivered an impressive performance in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, where he picked up 15 wickets in just two matches, effectively catching the attention of the selectors, while although he failed to take a wicket in the third match, his initial burst of form highlighted his enduring capabilities. His continued omission raises questions about the team's fast-bowling strategy, especially for. A challenging tour like South Africa where seasoned experience often proves invaluable.
Squad Composition and Key Selections
The Indian squad for the Test series against South Africa features several other notable changes and selections. Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna has been dropped from the team, making way for Akash Deep, who earns his spot following consistent strong performances in domestic cricket. The opening responsibilities will once again fall to the dynamic duo of Yashasvi. Jaiswal and KL Rahul, who are expected to provide solid starts for the team. The pace attack will be spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Akash Deep, who will aim to exploit the pace and bounce of the South African pitches. The squad also includes other talented players such as Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Axar. Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Kuldeep Yadav, ensuring a balanced and formidable unit capable of competing in challenging conditions.
India's Test Squad for South Africa
Shubman Gill (Captain), Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper and Vice-Captain), 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, and Akash Deep.
India-A Squad Announced, Tilak Varma to Captain
In addition to the senior Test squad, the Indian selection committee has also announced the India-A squad for the three-match ODI series against South Africa-A, scheduled to be held in Rajkot. Young sensation Tilak Varma has been appointed as the captain of the India-A team, with talented batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad named as the vice-captain. This is a significant opportunity for Tilak Varma to hone his leadership skills at a higher level, while wicketkeeper-batsmen Ishan Kishan and Prabhsimran Singh have been included in the India-A squad, providing valuable exposure to young talents on the international stage. The three ODI matches between South Africa-A and India-A are slated for November 13, 16, and 19, all to be played in Rajkot, offering a crucial platform for these emerging players to showcase their abilities. The squad also features players like Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Vipraj Nigam, Manav Suthar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna (getting a chance here), and Khaleel Ahmed, all contributing to building a strong foundation for the future of Indian cricket.
India-A Squad for ODI Series Against South Africa-A
Tilak Varma (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (Vice-Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper), Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Vipraj Nigam, Manav Suthar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Khaleel Ahmed, Prabhsimran Singh (Wicketkeeper).
