Pant returns as India A captain for South Africa series, eyes Test comeback

BENGALURU – In a significant boost for Indian cricket, star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is set to make his return to competitive action as captain of the India A squad for two four-day matches against South Africa A. The games, scheduled to take place at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, will mark Pant's return to the field after recovering from a fractured toe sustained during India's tour of England in July.

The series, starting with the first match on October 30, will serve as a crucial test for Pant's fitness and form ahead of the senior team's home Test series against South Africa, beginning on November 14.

From injury setback to comeback trail

Pant's absence since July has been notable, missing the Asia Cup and the subsequent Test series against the West Indies. The injury occurred during the fourth Test against England in Manchester, when he was hit on the foot while batting. The BCCI selectors' decision to appoint him as captain of the India A side for both games signals their confidence in his leadership and recovery.

With the primary goal of proving his fitness and shaking off any rustiness, Pant will lead a squad that features a mix of established domestic talent and emerging players. The squad for the two matches varies, with several senior Test regulars like KL Rahul, Mohammed Siraj, and Ruturaj Gaikwad joining for the second four-day game. This offers Pant the opportunity to play alongside and lead a range of players, further cementing his place back in the setup.

Eyes on the Test series

The spotlight will be firmly on Pant as he takes the field. While he's shown remarkable resilience in previous comebacks—including a stunning return after a severe car crash in 2022—his performance in these matches is crucial. The selectors will be monitoring his form closely, as a strong showing could pave the way for his return to the senior side for the South Africa Tests.

Dhruv Jurel, who kept wickets for India in Pant's absence during the West Indies Tests, also features in the second four-day game. This sets up a potential competition for the primary wicketkeeper-batter spot in the senior squad, adding another layer of intrigue to the series.

For Rishabh Pant, this series is more than just a comeback; it's a statement. His return as captain is a clear indicator that the management sees him as a leader for the future. His performance in Bengaluru could be the perfect stepping stone to re-establish himself as a key member of the Indian Test team.