Digital New Guru Sports Desk:
Rishabh Pant’s Comeback: A Major Boost for India’s Test Squad
Rishabh Pant has been recalled to India’s test cricket squad for the upcoming two-match series against South Africa national cricket team after recovering from a foot fracture; the series starts November 14 in Kolkata. The return of Rishabh Pant to India’s Test squad comes at a crucial juncture in the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle and marks a promising resurgence for the wicket-keeper-batter after a challenging period.
The set-up
On 5 November 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming two-Test series at home against South Africa national cricket team. The series is slated to start on 14 November at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with the second match to be played from 22 November in Guwahati.
In a strong signal of faith, Pant was picked as vice-captain and wicketkeeper-batter, with Shubman Gill leading the side.
The comeback trail
Pant’s road to recovery was far from straightforward. He sustained a foot fracture during the fourth Test against England in Manchester, which sidelined him from subsequent series, including the home Tests against the West Indies.
However, the selectors were convinced of his readiness after a strong showing for the India A side. In a four-day match against South Africa A at Bengaluru, Pant scored a fluent 90 in the second innings during a successful chase, underlining his match-fitness and form.
Why this matters
Pant’s recall has several immediate implications:
- Balance for India’s Test side: A wicket-keeper who can bat aggressively is a major asset in modern Test cricket. Pant brings that dual value back into the team.
- Leadership and experience: As vice-captain, Pant adds seniority in a squad that also includes younger players shaping the next phase of Indian Test cricket.
- World Test Championship stakes: With India currently third in the WTC standings and South Africa fourth, this series holds weight for both sides.
- Squad selection messages: The return of Pant and pace bowler Akash Deep (also recalled) signals the selectors’ trust in readiness and form. At the same time, certain senior names (e.g., Mohammed Shami) have been overlooked.
Potential challenges & what lies ahead
While the recall is welcome, there are a few considerations:
- Match sharpness: Though Pant impressed in the India A match, performing consistently at Test level, especially after an extended lay-off, is a different challenge.
- Physical readiness: The foot injury had been significant. Ensuring no recurrence and that Pant is fully mobile behind the stumps and while batting is key.
- Team dynamics: Integrating into a bowling attack and batting order that has evolved in his absence, and managing vice-captaincy responsibilities, will require adjustment.
- Opposition threat: South Africa – the reigning WTC champions – bring their own strengths. Their skipper Temba Bavuma has returned from injury, adding to their challenge.
Series outlook
The 2-Test series begins at Eden Gardens on 14 November, followed by the Guwahati leg starting 22 November. On home turf, the Indian team will aim to build momentum at the start of the WTC cycle. Pant’s presence adds both firepower and tactical depth.
Key things to watch:
- Where Pant bats in the order – he may slot into a number 5 position or adapt to team needs.
- How India utilise their pace and spin resources – the squad includes a mix of formats-ready players.
- Whether Pant’s wicket-keeping is sharp after the lay-off; keeping in Test cricket remains a physically and mentally demanding role.
- The performance of younger team-members and how they handle the pressure alongside a returning senior in Pant.
Conclusion
Rishabh Pant’s return is a narrative of resilience, recovery and faith in ability. After months out with injury, his comeback to the Test side is a boost for Indian cricket. As the home series against South Africa kicks off, all eyes will be on Pant to not just perform, but to carry experience, leadership and the spark that defines him.
For India, the stage is set: a strong squad, a pivotal series, and a returning match-winner. With Pant back behind the stumps and in the batting line-up, the team will look to make a statement at the start of their WTC campaign.
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