India receives a major boost as star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant makes his comeback to competitive cricket. The explosive left-hander has been named captain of India A for the upcoming two-match four-day series against South Africa A, starting October 30 at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Pant’s return comes after a brief layoff following a foot fracture he sustained in July while attempting a reverse scoop against England’s Chris Woakes. Now fully fit, he is set to lead a promising India A side, with a mix of youth and experience.
Sai Sudharsan Named Vice-Captain; Ayush Mhatre Earns Maiden Call
India’s in-form No. 3 batter Sai Sudharsan will serve as vice-captain for both matches. Known for his calm temperament and consistent performances, Sudharsan adds depth to the top order and leadership group.
The selectors have also taken a bold step by including Ayush Mhatre, a talented young opener, in the squad. While relatively new to the setup, Mhatre is expected to feature in the playing XI during the series. His selection underlines India’s intent to groom future stars in red-ball cricket.
India A Squad Details for Both Matches
For the first four-day match, India A has gone with a balanced 13-member squad, blending emerging talent with experienced campaigners. Ayush Mhatre, Devdutt Padikkal, and Rajat Patidar bolster the batting, while Yash Thakur and Anshul Kamboj offer pace options.
India A Squad for First Match:
Rishabh Pant (captain & wk), Ayush Mhatre, N Jagadeesan (wk), Sai Sudharsan (vice-captain), Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Manav Suthar, Anshul Kamboj, Yash Thakur, Ayush Badoni, Saransh Jain.
For the second four-day game, several senior players have been drafted in, including KL Rahul, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna. This game provides an opportunity for international regulars to get valuable red-ball game time ahead of future tours.
India A Squad for Second Match:
Rishabh Pant (captain & wk), KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Sai Sudharsan (vice-captain), Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Manav Suthar, Khaleel Ahmed, Gurnoor Brar, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep.
