Rishabh Pant Returns as India Announce Squad for Bangladesh Test Series
India has revealed its squad for the first Test match against Bangladesh, scheduled to take place from September 19-23, 2024, in Chennai. A key highlight is the much-anticipated return of wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has been absent from the national team for over a year due to a serious accident. The 17-member squad, led by Rohit Sharma, also includes the maiden call-up of left-arm seamer Yash Dayal from Uttar Pradesh.
Pant’s return marks a significant moment for the Indian team, as he had been sidelined following his near-fatal accident. Known for his aggressive batting style and sharp glovework, Pant is expected to be a key player in the series. His comeback is highly anticipated, especially since he last played for India in 2023.
Yash Dayal, the new inclusion in the squad, is a 26-year-old fast bowler who has impressed with his performances in domestic cricket and the IPL. Dayal made his first-class debut in 2018 and has since built an impressive record, taking 76 wickets in 44 innings at an average of 28.89. His recent form in the IPL, where he played for Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, further solidified his case for national selection.
The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has opted for a mix of experienced players and young talent, with most names being regulars in the Indian Test squad. Aside from Pant’s return and Dayal’s debut, the squad includes well-known figures like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and all-rounders Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel. The bowling unit will also feature experienced pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, ensuring a well-rounded team composition.
The first Test of the series will be held at Chennai’s iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium. Following this match, the second and final Test is scheduled to take place in Kanpur from September 27. With India playing on home soil, the team will be looking to capitalize on favorable conditions and continue their dominance in Test cricket.
The inclusion of Dayal adds an interesting dimension to India’s pace attack. Known for his ability to generate swing and seam movement, he could prove to be a useful asset, particularly in Indian conditions where the new ball often plays a crucial role. His strong domestic record, coupled with his performance in the IPL, has earned him a spot in the national side, marking the beginning of what could be a promising international career.
The full squad for the first Test is as follows: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yash Dayal. With a balanced mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, the squad appears well-equipped to take on Bangladesh.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be keen to test India’s mettle in the two-match series. While India enters the series as favorites, Bangladesh has shown in recent years that they can compete fiercely, especially in the longer format of the game.
Pant’s return brings a renewed sense of optimism for Indian cricket fans. His explosive batting and leadership behind the stumps will add depth to the team. His journey back to fitness and form has been long and challenging, but his presence in the squad signals his readiness to once again play at the highest level.
As the series approaches, all eyes will be on Pant’s performance and Yash Dayal’s debut, both of which promise to be exciting storylines for Indian cricket. With a strong squad in place and a home advantage, India will look to start the series on a positive note and set the tone for the upcoming matches.