IND vs SA 2025 – Predicting India XI for 2nd Test

India will look to bounce back in the second Test match and avoid a series defeat against South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The highly-anticipated encounter begins on Saturday, November 22.

In the first Test at Eden Gardens, the Indian batters faltered on Day 3, trying to chase down a 124-run target on a rank turner. They were dismissed for just 93, losing the match by 30 runs. Now, they will seek redemption against the Proteas in the first-ever Test match being hosted in Guwahati.

Let’s look at the probable playing XI of India for the first Test against South Africa:

Top Order: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Sai Sudharsan

Yashasvi Jaiswal registered scores of 12 and 0 in the first Test. He will be looking to put the rare insipid performance behind him and come out all guns blazing in Guwahati. On the other hand, KL Rahul showed commendable fight in the first innings, scoring a gritty 39. However, he was dismissed for one run in the second innings. His experience will be key in this crucial encounter. Meanwhile, Sai Sudharsan is expected to return to the side in place of the injured Shubman Gill.

Middle Order: Dhruv Jurel, Rishabh Pant (C & WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy/Axar Patel

Dhruv Jurel came into the first Test on the back of some brilliant red-ball form. However, he failed to make a mark in difficult batting conditions. Rishabh Pant will captain the side in Shubman’s absence. He will be eager to lead from the front. There could be a toss-up between Nitish Kumar Reddy and Axar Patel.

Lower Middle Order: Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar

Ravindra Jadeja scored 45 runs and picked up four wickets in Kolkata. On the other hand, Washington Sundar bowled just one over but showed immense grit and determination while being promoted to No. 3 in the batting order. He is expected to bat down the order but will play an important role nonetheless.

Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Kuldeep Yadav bagged four wickets in the first Test across the two innings. However, India would have hoped for more scalps from him on a pitch that had commendable turn. Jasprit Bumrah bagged a five-for in the first innings in Kolkata. He will hold the key with the new ball. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj bagged four wickets but looked far from his best.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!