India vs South Africa Test Battle Begins: Gill Faces Selection Dilemma Ahead of Eden Gardens Clash

India and South Africa face off in the first Test at Eden Gardens from November 14. With a spin-friendly pitch and tough selection choices, captain Shubman Gill’s biggest challenge will be picking the perfect playing XI.

Post Published By: Karan Sharma

Updated : 12 November 2025, 1:45 PM IST

India-South Africa Test Series Begins

New Delhi: The first match of the two-match Test series between India and South Africa will be played at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 14th. Shubman Gill will lead the team as Test captain for the first time in this match.

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This match is expected to be a thrilling one, as both teams possess strong bowling and batting prowess. South Africa are the current World Test Championship 2025 winners, making this match even more interesting.

Bowling Attack: Spinners Dominate

The Eden Gardens pitch typically favors spin bowlers. Therefore, Gill and the team management may field three spinners. Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar are likely to be selected.

Among the fast bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep are considered the strongest options. Akash Deep could also add some runs in the lower order, improving the team's balance. Mohammed Siraj may be rested as part of a rotation policy.

The South African Test Cricket Team

Batting Order: Responsibility on Rahul, Gill, and Jaiswal

The backbone of the Indian batting will be Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Young batsmen like Sai Sudarshan and Nitish Reddy are also looking for opportunities.

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The biggest challenge as a wicketkeeper will be choosing between Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel. Pant is struggling with fitness issues, while Jurel is in form. However, Rishabh Pant may have an edge based on experience.

India's Probable Playing XI

Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudarshan, Rishabh Pant/Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper), Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep/Mohammed Siraj.

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This match will not only be a battle for victory but will also be a test of new captain Shubman Gill's leadership abilities. India will have to perform well in every department to make a great start on their home ground.

Stay tuned to Dynamite News for each and every update related to this test series.