India Announces Squad for First Test Against Bangladesh: Pant Returns, Dayal Earns Maiden Call-Up
The Indian Men’s Selection Committee has announced the 16-member squad for the first Test of the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh, marking the start of India’s home season for 2024-25. The first Test is set to take place at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on September 19.
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant returns to the Test squad for the first time in two years after recovering from a serious car accident that sidelined him for the entire 2023 season. Pant recently made his white-ball return during the T20 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh pacer Yash Dayal has received his maiden India call-up for the Test format. With 76 wickets in 24 First-Class matches and 32 in List A cricket, Yash will be a potential contender alongside Akash Deep to join the pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
The batting order remains strong with captain Rohit Sharma set to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Shubman Gill retains his No. 3 spot, followed by veteran Virat Kohli in the middle order. KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel also secure their places in the team.
In the all-rounder department, Ravindra Jadeja will continue to provide his dual services along with Axar Patel, while Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav will be the key spinners on Chepauk’s spin-friendly track.
India’s full squad for the first Test against Bangladesh is as follows:
India Squad for 1st Test Against Bangladesh:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Rishabh Pant (WK)
- Dhruv Jurel (WK)
- R Ashwin
- R Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Akash Deep
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Yash Dayal
The series will be followed by three T20Is, concluding India’s home fixtures against Bangladesh for the season.
