Rishabh Pant Returns as India Announce Squad for 1st Test vs Bangladesh

Mumbai: In a significant boost to the Indian cricket team, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has made a comeback to the Test squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh. This marks Pant’s return to Test cricket after a serious car accident in December 2022.

The 16-member squad, announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), also includes uncapped left-arm pacer Yash Dayal. The experienced Rohit Sharma will lead the Indian contingent.

Dhruv Jurel retained his spot as wicketkeeper alongside Pant. KL Rahul, who has previously kept wickets, also features in the squad.

India’s spin department boasts veterans Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. The middle-order is bolstered by Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Sarfaraz Khan, while Shubman Gill is expected to continue at No. 3.

Jasprit Bumrah will lead the pace attack, supported by Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, who impressed during the recent series against England. The addition of Dayal strengthens the left-arm pace options.

The first Test of the ICC World Test Championship series will be played in Chennai, followed by the second Test in Kanpur.

India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.