India Squad for 1st Test vs Bangladesh: Pant Returns, New Pacers

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the squad for the first Test match against Bangladesh, scheduled to begin on September 19. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant makes his much-anticipated return to the Test squad after nearly 20 months due to injuries sustained in a car accident.

Rohit Sharma to Lead India’s Test Squad

Rohit Sharma will lead the team for this important series, with experienced players Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah also included. Pant’s return is a significant boost, and the squad sees some exciting new additions as well.

Young Pacers Yash Dayal and Akash Deep Included

The squad features two young pacers—Yash Dayal and Akash Deep. Yash Dayal, who earned his maiden call-up to the Indian Test team, will be eager to make an impact. Akash Deep, who has been named in the squad, adds depth to India’s pace attack.

Rishabh Pant’s Return After Long Hiatus

Rishabh Pant last played a Test match in December 2022 during India’s tour of Bangladesh. Shortly after that series, Pant was involved in a serious car accident on December 30, which sidelined him for several months. He made his competitive comeback during the IPL this year and later rejoined the national team for their victorious T20 World Cup campaign.

Mohammed Shami Misses Out

Notably, Mohammed Shami has not been included in the squad, despite earlier reports suggesting he was targeting a return for this series. The omission of the right-arm seamer will be a topic of interest as the team gears up for the long Test season ahead.

India’s Test Season Begins in Chennai

India’s long Test season begins with the first of two Tests against Bangladesh. The opening Test will take place in Chennai from September 19, followed by the second Test at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur from September 27 to October 1.

Dominant Record Against Bangladesh

India boasts a dominant record against Bangladesh in Test cricket, winning 11 of the 13 matches played between the two sides, with two ending in draws. However, Bangladesh enters this series with confidence after securing a historic 2-0 victory over Pakistan in their own backyard. For India, this will be their first Test series since their 4-1 triumph over England earlier this year.