India’s Test squad for the upcoming home series against the West Indies is expected to be announced soon, and while some key decisions loom, the selectors have a largely straightforward task ahead. The squad will likely be revealed within the next 48 hours, with fitness concerns and workload management at the forefront.
This series will serve as an opportunity for the team to solidify its core while also testing bench strength ahead of more challenging overseas assignments. The selectors must find a balance between experienced players and strategic flexibility, ensuring a well-rounded squad for the future.
Opening Pair: A Secure Combination
The opening pair appears settled, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul continuing to lead the top order. Jaiswal’s incredible performances during the England tour, including two centuries under pressure, and Rahul’s technical soundness, make them a solid combination. Unless an unexpected injury arises, both players will continue their roles at the top of the order.
Middle-Order: The Key Dilemmas
The middle-order poses a dilemma for selectors, particularly in light of Shreyas Iyer’s situation. Iyer’s sudden departure from India A captaincy, along with modest scores of 8 and 13 in the first match against Australia A, raises concerns about his fitness and availability. This opens the door for Devdutt Padikkal, who impressed in the first match against Australia A, showing his readiness for the Test challenge.
Sai Sudharsan, despite not having strong numbers, could be another option based on his temperament and technique displayed during the England tour. Karun Nair, who made a dream comeback to international cricket, may be the one to miss out, while Shubman Gill’s position as number three batter and captain remains unchanged.
Wicketkeeping Options: Flexibility with Jurel and Pant
India has tactical flexibility when it comes to wicketkeeping. Dhruv Jurel’s aggressive 140 against Australia A makes him a solid backup if Rishabh Pant is unavailable due to injury. Even if Pant regains fitness, Jurel’s form gives India the option to include an extra batter in the squad. If Pant is ruled out, Narayan Jagadeesan could also come into contention, having replaced Pant during the England tour after his injury.
Bowling Attack: Adjustments in Bumrah’s Absence
Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be rested for this series, allowing the team to manage his workload ahead of a packed schedule. With Bumrah absent, Mohammed Siraj is expected to lead the pace attack after his heroic performances at the Oval. Akash Deep, who impressed during the England tour, is likely to be the second pacer in the squad.
The third seamer spot could go to either Mohammed Shami, if fit, or Prasidh Krishna, based on fitness assessments. In the home conditions, India’s spin department will remain a strength, with Ravindra Jadeja leading the charge due to his vast experience. Washington Sundar’s all-round abilities make him a valuable addition, while Axar Patel could provide an additional spin option.
The Spin Department: Strength in Familiar Faces
Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist spinner, is expected to be the primary spinner for India, with his variations providing a valuable edge on turning tracks. Jadeja will spearhead the spin department, supported by Sundar and Patel, both of whom offer a solid all-round spin option.
India’s Probable Test Squad vs West Indies
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Devdutt Padikkal
- B Sai Sudharsan
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Rishabh Pant
- Dhruv Jurel
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Axar Patel
- Washington Sundar
- Mohammed Siraj
- Akash Deep
- Mohammed Shami/Prasidh Krishna
This squad blends experience with fresh talent, setting India up for both immediate success and long-term growth.
