In a bold and refreshing move, the BCCI has officially announced the 18-member Team India squad for the remaining 3 Test matches of the ongoing series, and it’s Shubman Gill who has been handed the captaincy reins! With Rohit Sharma unavailable due to workload management and Virat Kohli still out of contention, the selectors have placed their trust in youth — signaling a new chapter in Indian Test cricket.
This unexpected but exciting shift in leadership marks a major transition as India eyes the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final spot with fresh energy and fearless intent.
Shubman Gill: From Opener to Leader
Shubman Gill, at just 26, now becomes one of India’s youngest Test captains in recent years. With his calm head, technical brilliance, and growing experience in international cricket, Gill is seen as the face of India’s next-generation red-ball revolution.
Insiders suggest that coach Gautam Gambhir was instrumental in backing Gill for the role, confident in his leadership potential and ability to inspire the younger crop of players.
India’s 18-Member Squad for Remaining 3 Tests
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Shubman Gill (Captain)
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Yashasvi Jaiswal
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Abhimanyu Easwaran
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Sarfaraz Khan
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Shreyas Iyer
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Rajat Patidar
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Ishan Kishan (WK)
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KS Bharat (WK)
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Ravindra Jadeja
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Axar Patel
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Washington Sundar
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Kuldeep Yadav
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Ravi Bishnoi
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Jasprit Bumrah
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Avesh Khan
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Mukesh Kumar
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Arshdeep Singh
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Prasidh Krishna
Notable Inclusions & Absentees
The squad features a blend of youth and experience, with emphasis on players who have shown consistent form in domestic cricket and recent Test outings.
Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar continue to retain their spots, indicating faith in the middle-order youth brigade.
Washington Sundar adds batting depth and off-spin options, especially useful in subcontinental conditions.
Both Ishan Kishan and KS Bharat have been picked as wicketkeeping options.
Notably absent are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, whose long-term Test roles may now depend on form, fitness, and future planning.
Selection Strategy: Building for the Future
Speaking on the selection, a BCCI official said, “The idea is to give leadership exposure to the next generation and create a robust bench strength. Shubman Gill has the temperament and maturity to lead the red-ball side into the next era.”
Fan Reactions
The announcement has taken social media by storm, with hashtags like #GillCaptaincy, #NewEraIndia, and #TeamIndiaSquad trending across platforms.
Fans seem excited about the bold direction, with many praising the selectors for rewarding form and backing youth. However, some are still hoping for Kohli and Rohit’s return for future overseas tours.
What’s at Stake?
With the World Test Championship points table heating up, the remaining 3 Tests are critical. Under Shubman Gill’s leadership, Team India will look to seal the series, dominate the opposition, and keep their WTC final hopes alive.
Stay tuned for updates, playing XIs, and exclusive insights as this young Indian side gets ready to script a new chapter in Test cricket.