Indians Gear Up with Extended Playtime Ahead of Proteas Test Showdown

The ‘A’ tours organized by cricketing nations often serve as platforms for aspiring national team players who are prepared to step up when called upon. However, the second multi-day match between India-A and South Africa-A, starting Thursday at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, seems to have taken on a significance of its own.

This fixture is particularly noteworthy because the Indian lineup includes eight players from the Test squad set to face South Africa in the upcoming two-match Test series starting November 14. Meanwhile, the visitors boast the presence of Temba Bavuma, captain of the World Test Championship-winning team. The on-field performances are eagerly anticipated to match the strength of the teams on paper.

India-A claimed victory in a thrilling first match, winning by three wickets, thanks to off-spinner Tanush Kotian’s impressive performance, where he took a total of eight wickets (four for 83 and four for 26). Additionally, Rishabh Pant’s return from a foot injury after the fourth Test against England in July was a significant highlight. He made a brisk 90 in the second innings and resumed wicketkeeping duties, showcasing his fitness for the upcoming five-day games. Another match before the first Test in Kolkata against the Proteas will further hone his readiness.

B. Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal, who opened and batted at number three respectively in the last game, will aim to improve their scores after managing just 55 runs between them across innings.

While the South Africa-A squad might not match the Indian team’s star power, the return of Bavuma after a two-month injury break is a focal point. The warm conditions in Bengaluru could serve as a prelude to the weather in Kolkata.

SQUADS

India A:
Rishabh Pant (c/wk), KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Sai Sudharsan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dhruv Jurel, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Khaleel Ahmed, Akash Deep, Gurnoor Brar, Manav Suthar, Devdutt Padikkal.

South Africa A:
Jordan Hermann, Lesego Senokwane, Temba Bavuma (c), Zubayr Hamza, Marques Ackerman, Rubin Hermann, Rivaldo Moonsamy (wk), Tiaan van Vuuren, Prenelan Subrayen, Tshepo Moreki, Lutho Sipamla, Okuhle Cele, Jason Smith, Kyle Simmonds, Tsepo Ndwandwa, Mihlali Mpongwana, Codi Yusuf.

Published on November 5, 2025