Mumbai: India’s return to red-ball cricket is just around the corner, and with it comes a fresh squad announcement. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar unveiled the 15-member Indian team for the upcoming home Test series against the West Indies, set to begin on October 2.
While Shubman Gill continues as captain, the surprise change comes in the form of Ravindra Jadeja being named vice-captain, filling the leadership void left by Rishabh Pant’s continued absence. Notably, Karun Nair, who had a disappointing run in England, has been axed from the squad. Devdutt Padikkal earns a return to the side in his place.
New Faces and Notable Changes
The squad features a balance of youth and experience. Promising names like Sai Sudharsan and Nitish Kumar Reddy have been retained, while Padikkal’s comeback highlights the selectors’ focus on investing in talent with long-format potential.
Wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel and all-rounders Washington Sundar and Axar Patel also feature in the squad, giving the team depth in the lower middle-order. Fast-bowling duties will be handled by Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna, with Kuldeep Yadav included as the lead wrist-spinner.
Test Series Schedule & Context
India’s Test series against the Caribbean side will consist of two matches, beginning with the first encounter at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on October 2, followed by the second Test at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi from October 10.
This series marks India’s second outing in the 2025–27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, following their 2-2 draw in England earlier this year. With valuable WTC points at stake, the team will look to start their home leg on a strong note.
Asia Cup Commitments Before Test Shift
India is currently wrapping up its Asia Cup 2025 campaign in the UAE, having already sealed a place in the final on September 28 in Dubai. Despite a game remaining in the Super Four stage, the team has dominated, defeating both Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The Gautam Gambhir-coached side will have only a brief turnaround between formats, as the Test squad quickly regroups for the red-ball challenge.
Full Squad for India vs West Indies Test Series:
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Shubman Gill (Captain)
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Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-Captain)
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Yashasvi Jaiswal
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KL Rahul
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Sai Sudharsan
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Devdutt Padikkal
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Dhruv Jurel (WK)
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Washington Sundar
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Axar Patel
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Jasprit Bumrah
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Mohammed Siraj
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Prasidh Krishna
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Kuldeep Yadav
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Nitish Kumar Reddy
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N Jagadeesan
