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.
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]].
Here’s India’s confirmed lineup for the 1st Test at Eden Gardens:
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.
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:
Selectors clearly prioritized balance over extra seam options, banking on the pitch to turn sharply after Day 1.
South Africa, captained by Temba Bavuma, named a pace-heavy XI:
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” .
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.
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.
Joe Root delivered a vintage performance in Colombo, anchoring England's chase to level the ODI…
In a rain-affected thriller, India's U19 team delivered a masterclass against New Zealand, with captain…
The ICC has officially released revised fixtures for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup after…
The dream of a full-fledged India vs Pakistan bilateral cricket series is officially on ice.…
In a historic and controversial move, Bangladesh has been officially removed from the ICC Men’s…
With the T20 World Cup looming, Sanju Samson's struggles with the bat have opened the…