India’s Test team is gathering in Kolkata for the upcoming two-match series against South Africa. Key players like Captain Shubman Gill, senior bowler Jasprit Bumrah, all-rounders Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar, and head coach Gautam Gambhir were among the first arrivals at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Sunday evening.
The squad’s early arrival follows the conclusion of a five-match T20I series against Australia, with the final game being washed out in Sydney on November 8. With a quick turnaround between formats, Gill, Gambhir, and other team members flew directly from Australia to Kolkata to start their preparations for the red-ball series.
Gill is set to lead the side, while Rishabh Pant is making his return to Test cricket as the vice-captain after a two-year absence due to injury. The rest of the team, including KL Rahul, Pant, and Dhruv Jurel, are expected to join the camp on Monday, with full training sessions commencing at Eden Gardens on Tuesday. The first Test match is scheduled to begin on November 14, followed by the second match in Guwahati on November 22.
After a mixed tour of Australia, India’s focus now shifts to the World Test Championship (WTC) as they prepare for the home series against South Africa. Pant’s return to the Test format holds significance, with his last appearance being in Manchester against England, where he suffered a foot injury. Following extensive rehabilitation and impressive performances in domestic cricket, Pant’s leadership during India A’s matches against South Africa A showcased his readiness.
The upcoming Tests against South Africa are crucial for India’s WTC campaign, as they aim to build on their strong position in the championship. With a history of successful home series against South Africa and with Gill leading the team, India is determined to maintain their dominance as they compete in the WTC race once again.