India Set for Crucial Test Series Against South Africa

Kolkata, India — India will face South Africa in a two-match Test series starting November 14 at Eden Gardens. This series is vital for both teams as they compete for points in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

India, currently ranked third in the WTC table with a points percentage of 61.90%, seeks to maintain momentum after a recent 2-0 win against the West Indies and a 2-2 draw in England. They aim to solidify their position ahead of the challenging Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia next year.

“This series is a key opportunity for us,” said Indian captain Shubman Gill. “Every point matters as we prepare for the next WTC final.”

South Africa enters the series ranked fourth with a points percentage of 50%. They aim to bounce back from a recent 1-1 draw in Pakistan and reinforce their status as defending WTC champions.

South African captain Temba Bavuma expressed confidence in his team’s preparation. “We have a solid squad and have acclimated well to conditions here,” Bavuma said. “We know it won’t be easy, but we are determined to make history in India.”

Conditions at Eden Gardens are expected to favor spin, which raises questions about team selections. Gill has emphasized a balanced pitch favoring both batters and bowlers.

The return of livewire wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who missed the last series due to injury, adds strength to the Indian batting lineup. Indian assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate noted, “Having Pant back in the team boosts our confidence.”

Both teams are aware of the historic significance of the series, as South Africa looks to end a long-standing poor record in India. Their last Test series win in India dates back to 2000.

The second Test will take place in Guwahati from November 22, followed by three one-day internationals and five Twenty20 matches.