Rishabh Pant Returns to Lead India A Ahead of South Africa Tests

Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is set to make a significant comeback as he leads India A in two four-day matches against South Africa A ahead of the upcoming Test series in November. Pant’s return marks an important step as he looks to regain form and secure his spot in the senior India Test squad.

The first four-day match will begin on October 30, followed by the second on November 6, with both games hosted at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Pant, who has been sidelined since a foot fracture during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in July, missed the home Test series against the West Indies and the white-ball tour of Australia. Sai Sudharsan will serve as vice-captain for India A, providing leadership support alongside Pant.

The second four-day match will feature several Test specialists, including KL Rahul, Mohammed Siraj, and Dhruv Jurel, allowing India A to mirror conditions and challenges expected in the senior series. Dhruv Jurel is likely to take over wicketkeeping duties alongside Pant, while Tamil Nadu’s N Jagdeesan will be rested for the second match. This combination is seen as a rehearsal for India’s strategy against South Africa.

Other notable names in the India A squad include Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Manav Suthar, Prasidh Krishna, Khaleel Ahmed, and Akash Deep, ensuring a balance of batting and bowling talent.

India have a consistent practice of scheduling A-team matches ahead of major Test assignments. Prior to the West Indies series, India A faced Australia A in Lucknow, giving players a chance to regain match rhythm and adjust to high-pressure situations. Head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasized the importance of competitive match play over net sessions, noting that live matches are essential for Test preparation.

On the South African side, Temba Bavuma returns from injury to captain South Africa A, with Marques Ackerman, Zubayr Hamza, and other key players completing the squad.

Pant’s leadership in these matches will be closely watched, as selectors aim to assess his form and readiness. His performance in these four-day games will likely influence the final selection for India’s two-Test series against South Africa, starting November 14 in Kolkata.