The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies, set to kick off on October 2, 2025, in Ahmedabad. This series marks India’s second assignment in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle and comes on the heels of the Asia Cup final, scheduled just three days prior.
Jasprit Bumrah Stays On, Jadeja Named Vice Captain
Despite widespread speculation about the possibility of resting Jasprit Bumrah due to his demanding schedule—he’s been India’s pace spearhead throughout the Asia Cup 2025—selectors have kept faith in him. India’s chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, confirmed that Bumrah will be available for both Tests, even though he’s played four of India’s five matches in the continental event in the UAE. The quick turnaround between the Asia Cup final on September 28 and the first Test hasn’t deterred the management, who have carefully managed Bumrah’s workload, given his history of injuries.
Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted as vice-captain, reflecting his seniority and growing influence in the squad. Shubman Gill continues as captain, with Axar Patel making a return after missing the previous Test assignment.
Squad Changes: Karun Nair Out, Padikkal and Reddy In
One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement is the omission of middle-order batter Karun Nair. After struggling to convert his starts in the recent home series against England, Nair has been left out as the selectors decided to move in a new direction. Devdutt Padikkal and Nitish Reddy have both been recalled, while Abhimanyu Easwaran and Manav Suthar miss out this time.
Shreyas Iyer, meanwhile, has requested time off from red-ball cricket, citing stiffness and fatigue in his back—a move the BCCI has confirmed in an official statement. Rajat Patidar, originally set to lead India A, has been shifted to captain ROI for the Irani Cup against Vidarbha.
India’s squad for the West Indies Tests is a blend of experience and fresh faces, with key names like Axar Patel, Bumrah, and Jadeja forming the backbone. The first Test gets underway at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 2, promising an intriguing start to India’s WTC home campaign.
