Pant Sets the Stage: India A Takes on SA A in Unofficial Test Opener

Fearlessness and flamboyance will take center stage at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Grounds as Rishabh Pant makes his return to competitive cricket, captaining India A against South Africa A starting Thursday.

This event marks Pant’s eagerly awaited comeback following a three-month injury hiatus. The wicketkeeper-batter hurt his foot during the fourth Test against England in late July and has been diligently working towards full fitness since then.

This injury forced him to miss the Asia Cup and the home Test series against the West Indies. However, this two-match, four-day series is the perfect opportunity for Pant to regain his rhythm and confidence ahead of India’s upcoming Test series against world champions South Africa.

The 28-year-old, set to replace Dhruv Jurel, has been training intensively at the Centre of Excellence, with a focus on both his batting and wicketkeeping during rigorous practice sessions.

In addition, the India A squad features young talent in the top order. Promising batter Sai Sudharsan is keen to make a strong impression and secure his place at the crucial No. 3 position, while Devdutt Padikkal brings promising form into the match, having scored a fluent 96 for Karnataka against Saurashtra in a recent Ranji Trophy game.

On the bowling front, Punjab’s exciting medium-pacer Gurnoor Brar, who previously played for India A against Australia A, brings energy to the pace attack. Experienced left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed aims to build on his domestic form, having recently taken three wickets for Rajasthan in a Ranji Trophy match.

The spin department, featuring Saransh Jain, Manav Suthar, and Harsh Dubey, will offer Pant valuable match practice behind the stumps, while providing India’s emerging talents an opportunity to showcase their skills ahead of the home Test season.

Published on October 29, 2025.