As India prepares to face South Africa in the opening Test of the two-match series starting November 14 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, skipper Shubman Gill has finally addressed one of the most debated topics – the absence of senior pacer Mohammed Shami from the Test squad. Gill admitted that Shami exclusion wasn’t an easy call for the selectors and praised his immense contribution to Indian cricket.
During the pre-match press conference, Gill said,
“Bowlers of Shami bhai’s caliber are rare. But when you look at how Bumrah, Siraj, and youngsters like Akash Deep have performed, it becomes a tough decision. Players like Shami bhai missing out are never easy, but sometimes, the management has to look ahead. The selectors would be in a better position to explain the specifics, especially regarding fitness and workload.”
Shami last featured for India in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia and has been recovering from injury since the 2025 Asia Cup, where he missed the knockout stages. Despite strong domestic performances for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, the senior bowler has been kept out to manage his workload, as India faces a packed schedule ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.
India’s Bowling Combination Dilemma
India’s captain acknowledged that the biggest challenge before the first Test lies in choosing between an additional pacer or a third spinner.
With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj confirmed starters, Gill hinted that Akash Deep could be India’s third seamer if conditions favor pace. On the spin front, India has a strong set of options — Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar.
“The real challenge is always between an extra spinner or pacer. We’ll assess the pitch tomorrow morning. But one thing is sure — spinners play a crucial role in determining results in Indian conditions,” Gill added.
The Indian skipper also emphasized that the all-round abilities of Jadeja, Axar, and Washington provide the team great balance, giving depth in both batting and bowling departments.
Also see: India vs South Africa 1st Test Live Streaming: When and Where to Watch the Match
The 25-year-old captain also spoke about the challenges of leading India across formats.
“I’m still learning how to manage my workload as a multi-format player. The schedule is tight, and the transition between formats is fast. But the challenge is more mental than physical,” he said.
On facing Temba Bavuma South Africa, the World Test Championship holders, Gill admitted it won’t be an easy series.
“We know it’s never easy against the WTC champions. They have world-class bowlers and batters. We’ll have to play disciplined cricket. These two Tests are very important for our WTC points,” he said.
India’s Probable XI for the 1st Test
Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC & WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep.
With Eden Gardens set to host its first Test in six years, all eyes will be on how Shubman Gill’s young Indian side performs — and whether the decision to rest Mohammed Shami proves strategic or costly.
