Table of Contents
- Pant’s Emotional Return to the Test Arena
- India’s Final Playing XI: Full Breakdown
- Who Missed Out—and Why?
- South Africa’s Lineup and Tactical Intent
- Eden Gardens Pitch Report and Match Outlook
- Key Battles to Watch on Day 1
- Fantasy Cricket Picks Based on XI Selection
- Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
The cricketing world held its breath as the playing XIs for the India vs South Africa 1st Test were announced at Eden Gardens—and history was made. Rishabh Pant, returning to international cricket for the first time since his near-fatal car accident in December 2022, is back in the Indian Test team. Alongside him, young Dhruv Jurel has been included as the second wicketkeeper, confirming India’s commitment to both emotional reunion and long-term succession planning.
After South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first—aiming to end their 25-year winless streak on Indian soil—the home side locked in a balanced XI that blends experience, flair, and depth. But this selection also left a few notable names on the bench. Let’s break it all down.
Pant’s Emotional Return to the Test Arena
Rishabh Pant’s inclusion isn’t just tactical—it’s symbolic. Nearly three years after his accident, Pant has undergone multiple surgeries, intense rehabilitation, and relentless mental preparation to reclaim his place behind the stumps. His last Test was in July 2022, against England at Edgbaston, where he scored a defiant 146.
While Dhruv Jurel—22, sharp behind the stumps, and recently impressive on the England tour—was expected to start as first-choice keeper, selectors opted for a dual-wicketkeeper strategy to ease Pant back in. This also gives India flexibility: Pant can focus on batting at No. 6 or 7 while Jurel handles keeping duties if needed.
“Seeing him back in whites is special for every Indian fan,” said former captain Sourav Ganguly in a pre-match interview [[INTERNAL_LINK:pant-comeback-analysis]].
India vs South Africa: India’s Final Playing XI
Here’s India’s confirmed lineup for the 1st Test at Eden Gardens:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Ajinkya Rahane
- Rishabh Pant
- Dhruv Jurel (wk)
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
This XI features a classic home-conditions setup: two frontline spinners (Ashwin and Jadeja), a solid top six, and a potent pace duo. Notably, India has opted for only one specialist pacer beyond Bumrah and Siraj—trusting spin to dominate from Day 2 onward.
Who Missed Out—and Why?
With 14 players in the squad, three had to sit out. The biggest surprise? The omission of Kuldeep Yadav, who requested leave for his wedding in late November but was still expected to feature in at least the first Test.
Other notable exclusions:
- Kuldeep Yadav: Despite strong A-team form, left out likely due to pitch favoring off-spin over wrist-spin and his upcoming wedding leave.
- Mukesh Kumar: The backup pacer loses out to India’s faith in spin-heavy composition at Eden Gardens.
- Shubham Gill (reserve batter): Not needed with Rahane providing experienced middle-order cover.
Selectors clearly prioritized balance over extra seam options, banking on the pitch to turn sharply after Day 1.
South Africa’s Lineup and Tactical Intent
South Africa, captained by Temba Bavuma, named a pace-heavy XI:
- Dean Elgar
- Aiden Markram
- Tony de Zorzi
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- David Teeger
- Wandile Makwetu (wk)
- Kyle Verreynne
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Marco Jansen
- Nandre Burger
With just one frontline spinner (Maharaj) and three tall pacers, SA is banking on early seam movement under overcast Kolkata skies. Bavuma admitted pre-match: “Playing in India is our toughest challenge—but we’re ready to compete” .
Eden Gardens Pitch Report and Match Outlook
The Eden Gardens surface is dry with visible cracks—classic signs of a pitch that will assist spinners from Day 2. However, the new ball is expected to offer bounce and carry on Day 1, especially under cloud cover.
Historically, Eden Gardens has produced results: 13 of the last 15 Tests here have had a winner. India hasn’t lost a Test at this venue since 2010.
Key Battles to Watch on Day 1
- Bumrah vs Elgar: India’s strike bowler against SA’s gritty opener.
- Pant vs Maharaj: Aggressive strokeplay versus disciplined left-arm spin.
- Ashwin vs Bavuma: Tactical duel between two experienced campaigners.
- Jaiswal vs Rabada: Young gun tested by raw pace and bounce.
Fantasy Cricket Picks Based on XI Selection
- Top Picks: Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin
- Captaincy Choice: Bumrah (for early wickets) or Pant (explosive potential)
- Differential: Dhruv Jurel—could score quick runs and take catches
- Avoid: Kuldeep Yadav (not playing), Mukesh Kumar
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
The India vs South Africa 1st Test isn’t just about series points—it’s about legacy, resilience, and renewal. With Pant’s return, Gill’s leadership debut, and a pitch ready to challenge both batting and bowling units, Eden Gardens is set for a historic contest. As the Proteas chase their first win in India since 1999, India aims to extend their fortress at home.
One thing’s certain: cricket fans are in for a treat.