Cricket fans are in for a thrilling encounter as Shubman Gill's Team India prepares to face Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the first match of a two-Test series. The iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata will host this much-anticipated clash starting Friday.
Team India's New Look and Key Returns
India enters this contest with significant momentum, having whitewashed the West Indies in their previous assignment. The squad sees a major boost with the highly anticipated return of wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant to the side. His comeback adds firepower to the middle order.
Further shaping the team's strategy, the confirmation of Dhruv Jurel in the starting lineup and the release of Nitish Kumar Reddy for the India-A series indicate a tactical shift. It appears the team management is leaning towards strengthening the batting by including an extra specialist batter instead of an all-rounder.
Bowling Arsenal and South Africa's Strategy
India's bowling attack presents a formidable challenge. The spin department is rich with options, featuring the wily Kuldeep Yadav, who was impressive against the West Indies. He is complemented by the all-round capabilities of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, offering variety and depth.
The pace battery, led by the ever-reliable Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, has been in excellent form, ready to exploit any assistance from the pitch. On the other hand, South Africa is expected to counter the spin-friendly conditions of Eden Gardens by fielding a two-spinner combination in their playing eleven.
Predicted Line-ups and Full Squads
India's Predicted XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (Captain), Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
South Africa's Squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Dewald Brevis, Zubayr Hamza, Tony de Zorzi, Corbin Bosch, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Simon Harmer.
India's Full Squad: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Devdutt Padikkal, Akash Deep.
