India Test team for the West Indies series soon
India will soon announce the Test squad for the home series against West Indies. While selectors have a few tough calls to make, most decisions are expected to be clear-cut.
India’s Test squad for the home series against West Indies will likely be announced within 48 hours. Apart from workload and fitness concerns of a few key players, most of the selections are expected to be straightforward.
The upcoming series is a chance to strengthen India’s playing combination while giving bench players some exposure before tough overseas tours. A well-balanced 15-member squad should include both experienced performers and flexible options.
Stable openers
India’s opening pair looks largely settled, thanks to their current form. Yashasvi Jaiswal impressed on the England tour with two pressure-filled centuries in tough conditions. His partner, KL Rahul, also stood out as the most technically assured batter during the series. Unless injuries intervene, the duo is expected to continue opening for India.
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Challenges in the middle order
“The middle order could pose some selection challenges. Shreyas Iyer stepped down as India A captain just hours before the second match against Australia A for ‘personal reasons,’ and his modest scores of 8 and 13 in the first game add uncertainty about his form and readiness.
This uncertainty boosts Devdutt Padikkal’s chances, as his impressive performance in the first India A match against Australia A highlights his readiness for Test cricket. Sai Sudharsan, too, could get another opportunity, having shown strong temperament and technique on the England tour, even if his stats didn’t fully reflect it.
Karun Nair, despite a remarkable comeback, could be left out, while Shubman Gill’s place at number three and his role as team captain remain unquestioned.
Keeper options for the series
India’s wicketkeeping options provide tactical flexibility. Dhruv Jurel’s aggressive 140 against Australia A makes him a strong backup if Rishabh Pant is unavailable. Even with Pant in the squad, Jurel’s form gives India the chance to strengthen the lineup by including an extra batter.
If Pant is unavailable, India could consider Narayan Jagadeesan as a replacement. He was previously called up during the England tour when Pant fractured his toe in the Manchester Test.
Bowling plans with Bumrah missing
India’s pace attack may see some changes as Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be rested for workload management. After the Asia Cup and with a busy schedule ahead, this lower-priority series could be the perfect opportunity to give the ace pacer a break.
Mohammed Siraj looks set to lead the pace attack after his heroics at the Oval. Akash Deep, who impressed during the England tour, is likely to be the second pacer. The third seamer spot could go to Mohammed Shami if he’s fit, otherwise Prasidh Krishna may fill the role.
In home conditions, India’s spin department remains a key strength. Ravindra Jadeja will lead the unit with his vast experience, while Washington Sundar is expected in the squad for both his bowling and recent batting contributions. Axar Patel could serve as the third all-round spin option for the series.
Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be the lead specialist in the spin department. On pitches that assist spinners, his variations and mystery will be a key asset for the captain.
Expected India Squad vs West Indies (Tests)
Captain & Top Order:
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Shubman Gill (c)
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Yashasvi Jaiswal
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KL Rahul
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Devdutt Padikkal
Middle Order:
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B Sai Sudharsan
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Sarfaraz Khan
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Rishabh Pant
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Dhruv Jurel
All-rounders & Spinners:
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Ravindra Jadeja
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Kuldeep Yadav
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Axar Patel
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Washington Sundar
Pace Attack:
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Mohammed Siraj
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Akash Deep
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Mohammed Shami / Prasidh Krishna