India Test Squad for West Indies Series: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to unveil the squad for the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies on September 24. With Ajit Agarkar leading the selection committee, the announcement is expected to feature some high-profile omissions, fitness-related calls, and perhaps a couple of fresh inclusions.
The series marks India’s first red-ball challenge at home since the retirement of spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin, making the squad composition particularly intriguing.
Rishabh Pant: Still Not Match-Ready
Rishabh Pant’s fitness has been one of the biggest talking points leading up to this selection. After fracturing his toe during the Manchester Test against England earlier this year, Pant missed the fifth match of the series. Reports suggest that the dynamic wicket-keeper batter is still not fully fit and will not be considered for this series.
Pant’s absence once again leaves India searching for a reliable option behind the stumps. KS Bharat and Ishan Kishan are the leading candidates, with Bharat being preferred for his superior wicket-keeping skills in red-ball cricket. Kishan, however, brings explosiveness with the bat, leaving the selectors with a tricky decision.
Shreyas Iyer: Doubtful Return
Shreyas Iyer, who has not represented India in Tests since February 2024, remains doubtful for a recall. Although he was named captain of India A for the unofficial two-match Test series against Australia, his absence from the second game has raised questions about his fitness and readiness.
If Iyer is not picked, the selectors could turn to Devdutt Padikkal, who has impressed with consistency at the domestic level. Padikkal’s calm temperament and ability to anchor innings make him a strong contender for the middle-order reserve slot. Karun Nair, once viewed as a Test hopeful after his famous triple century, is reportedly not in consideration anymore.
Jasprit Bumrah: Rest and Workload Management
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to feature in this series. Having played a crucial role in the recently concluded Asia Cup 2025, the selectors are expected to manage his workload carefully to keep him fresh for the upcoming overseas tours and the high-profile Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year.
In his absence, the fast-bowling attack could be led by Mohammed Siraj and Mukesh Kumar, with the possibility of youngsters like Avesh Khan or Akash Deep earning spots to add depth.
Life After Ashwin: Who Leads India’s Spin Attack?
For the first time in over a decade, India will enter a home Test series without Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement earlier this year. His absence leaves a massive void in India’s spin department.
The likely candidates to step up include:
- Axar Patel – Expected to return to the squad after missing recent tours. His accuracy and batting depth make him a vital pick.
- Ravindra Jadeja – Now the senior-most spinner, Jadeja’s all-round ability will be more important than ever.
- Kuldeep Yadav – A strong contender for the second spinner’s role, especially on tracks assisting turn.
The choice between a two-spinner or three-spinner setup will depend on pitch conditions, but selectors will be keen to test combinations ahead of tougher assignments.
Spotlight on New Faces
With injuries and workload management opening opportunities, the upcoming series could see some fresh talent making the cut. Among the names being considered:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – After a breakthrough year in white-ball formats, Jaiswal could cement his place in red-ball cricket.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad – Another top-order batter in contention if the selectors want to strengthen backup options.
- Sarfaraz Khan – The Mumbai batter continues to dominate in domestic cricket, and the West Indies series may present the perfect opportunity for his long-awaited debut.
West Indies Series: Why It Matters
Although the West Indies are no longer the force they once were in Test cricket, this series holds significant importance for India. It will:
- Serve as preparation for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
- Allow the selectors to experiment with new combinations in a less high-pressure environment.
- Mark the beginning of a new chapter for India’s spin attack without Ashwin.
- Provide a chance for fringe players to prove themselves before tougher assignments.
Possible India Test Squad (Predicted)
- Batters: Rohit Sharma (capt), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Devdutt Padikkal/Sarfaraz Khan
- Wicketkeepers: KS Bharat, Ishan Kishan
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel
- Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav
- Pacers: Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Akash Deep
Final Thoughts
The squad announcement on September 24 promises plenty of intrigue. With Pant and Bumrah almost certain to miss out and Iyer doubtful, the door is wide open for youngsters like Padikkal, Sarfaraz, and Jaiswal to step up. The two-Test series against the West Indies may not be the toughest challenge, but it could very well shape the roadmap for India’s long-term Test future.
India’s selectors have a delicate balance to strike between experience and youth, proven performers and fresh blood. Whatever the final squad looks like, it will mark the beginning of a new era for Indian Test cricket.
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