Rishabh Pant Ruled Out, Padikkal Returns as BCCI Names Squad for West Indies Tests

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday, September 25, unveiled the 15-man squad for the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies. The selection brought both surprises and setbacks, with the biggest news being the absence of star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who is recovering from a toe fracture sustained during the recently concluded England tour.

Pant’s Absence and New Wicketkeeping Options

Pant’s absence leaves a void in India’s batting line-up and wicketkeeping department. To address this, selectors have named Dhruv Jurel as the first-choice wicketkeeper. Jurel, who impressed on his Test debut earlier this year, will now shoulder the responsibility behind the stumps. Tamil Nadu’s N. Jagadeesan has been included as the deputy wicketkeeper, marking his first Test call-up.

Padikkal Back in Blue

Another highlight of the squad announcement is the return of Devdutt Padikkal. The Karnataka left-hander, who featured in the Perth Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024–25, has been recalled in place of Karun Nair. With his fluent stroke play and recent form in domestic cricket, Padikkal is expected to add depth to the top order.

Leadership and Key Players

As expected, Shubman Gill will captain the side, with Ravindra Jadeja serving as vice-captain. This combination brings youthful energy paired with experience. India’s bowling attack remains formidable with Jasprit Bumrah, the No. 1 ranked Test bowler, leading the pace battery alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna.

The spin department boasts variety with Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav providing options. Young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has also been retained, further showcasing India’s commitment to grooming fresh talent.

Shreyas Iyer Granted Break

Middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer has been granted a six-month break from red-ball cricket due to recurring back spasms. His absence could open opportunities for players like Padikkal and Sai Sudharasan to prove their mettle in the longer format.

Fixtures

The series kicks off at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad (October 2–6), followed by the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi (October 10–14). These games will be crucial for India as they continue their push in the World Test Championship cycle.

India Squad for West Indies Tests

• Shubman Gill (C)
• Yashasvi Jaiswal
• KL Rahul
• Devdutt Padikkal
• Dhruv Jurel
• Ravindra Jadeja (VC)
• Washington Sundar
• Jasprit Bumrah
• Axar Patel
• Nitish Kumar Reddy
• Mohammed Siraj
• Prasidh Krishna
• Kuldeep Yadav
• N. Jagadeesan
• Sai Sudharasan

India’s blend of experienced campaigners and young blood signals an exciting contest ahead against the Caribbean side. All eyes will be on Gill’s leadership and Padikkal’s comeback as India prepares for another crucial red-ball challenge.