first test between India and South Africa South Africa captain debuts with a significant surprise at Eden Gardens Temba Bavuma Won the toss and decided to bat first. There is a tough competition between the two teams for qualification to the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2027, so the stakes cannot be higher.
However, even before the first ball was bowled, the Proteas team suffered a major setback.
Kagiso Rabada misses out, Senuran Muthusamy surprisingly out
South Africa’s leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada Has been ruled out of the first Test after suffering a rib injury during pre-match training. Bavuma confirmed the development at the toss, and described Rabada’s absence as a “big blow” in such an important match.
Rabada’s pace, reverse swing and ability to strike early have made him the backbone of South Africa’s Test attack for years. His unavailability forces the Proteas to rethink their bowling strategy on a pitch that historically helps both seamers and spinners.
Rabada is expected to undergo further evaluation, and his participation in the remainder of the series remains uncertain.
In another surprise move, South Africa have dropped spinner Senuran Muthusamy, who was the player of the series in their last Test match against Pakistan. Given Muthusamy’s recent form and effectiveness in subcontinental conditions, questions have been raised over his appointment.
Instead, the Proteas have opted for a more pace-heavy and all-rounder-oriented combination.
To compensate for Rabada’s absence, South Africa brought in all-rounder Corbin Bosch, who joined fellow fast bowler Marco Johnson to lead the pace attack. Jansen, known for his bounce and movement, will have increased responsibility in the absence of Rabada.
For spin duties, the visitors will rely on the experienced pair of Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, who are expected to produce a turning track as the match progresses.
Also read: India vs South Africa 2025 – Eden Gardens Pitch Report, Kolkata Weather Forecast for 1st Test
IND vs SA, 1st Test: Playing XI of both teams
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
South Africa: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tony De Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj.
