India captain Shubman Gill confirmed that the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa is almost finalised. However, he conceded that a significant selection dilemma remains: the choice between a specialist spinner or an extra fast bowler. Notably, the series opener is slated to be played from November 14 at the Eden Gardens.
There is always a conflict if you want to go for an extra seamer or spinner: Gill
Gill refrained from disclosing the final team combination, stating that the team will make a final decision on match morning. This delay is strategic, allowing the management to take a final call only after properly assessing the pitch conditions and ensuring they select the most suitable attack.
"It's always this time of the year, there is always a conflict if you want to go for an extra seamer or spinner. That's why we will see the condition tomorrow and decide on the XI," Gill said in the pre-match press conference on November 13.
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India's pace attack for the Test is set to be spearheaded by the experienced duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj. They are complemented by Akash Deep, who provides the third specialist seaming option in the squad. This core pace unit provides the initial threat for the team.
Spinners will decide the game, feels Shubman Gill
The spinning department offers significant depth and versatility. The squad includes Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav. Critically, Jadeja, Axar, and Washington Sundar also bring considerable value with the bat, which enhances the team's lower-order stability. However, despite this wealth of pace and batting depth, Captain Gill hinted at the overriding strategy, suggesting that the spinners will ultimately be the decisive factor in the outcome of the match.
"It's more or less finalised. The wicket looks different from yesterday. We will see it tomorrow morning and then will finalise the spin combination, as spinners, more or less, will decide the game," Gill further added.
India’s Test squad:
Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper/vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep
South Africa’s Test squad:
Temba Bavuma (C), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne.