With the excitement building ahead of the home Test series, Team India is set to face the reigning World Test Champions, South Africa, in a two-match contest starting November 14 at the iconic Eden Gardens. Skipper Shubman Gill expressed confidence in India’s depth, particularly praising the quality of the all-rounders at his disposal — Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar.

“We’re really fortunate to have such high-quality all-rounders,” Shubman Gill said. “All of them have proven themselves with both bat and ball, especially in Indian conditions. As a captain, it’s tough to decide who to leave out, but that’s a great problem to have. It adds to the excitement and competitiveness of the series.”

Reflecting on the challenge South Africa poses, Shubman Gill acknowledged their resilience and consistency.

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“They played outstanding cricket in their last series and managed to draw it. That’s why they’re the World Test Champions. It’s going to be a strong and competitive battle,” he noted, referring to South Africa’s triumph over Australia in the previous Test Championship cycle.

Gill also shed light on his approach to leadership and batting. “When I’m preparing, I focus mainly on my role as a batter. Once I’m out there, I back my instincts — that’s when I make my best tactical calls,” he said. “I try to think like a batter, not as a captain, while I’m at the crease.”

India will, however, miss the experience of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami for this series. Addressing his absence, Gill emphasised the importance of squad rotation and planning. “There aren’t many bowlers of Shami bhai’s calibre. But when you see the performances of Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Siraj, and Bumrah, it becomes a tough decision. Still, it’s crucial to plan ahead,” he said.

Gill concluded by stating that fitness and selection matters would be better addressed by the selectors but assured that India’s bench strength remains one of its biggest assets heading into the much-anticipated clash.

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India squad: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper) (Vice Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep.