As the excitement from the Asia Cup final winds down, cricket fans in India are already turning their eyes to the upcoming two-match Test series against West Indies. The action kicks off on October 2 in Ahmedabad, marking India’s next big challenge in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
One big surprise in the squad? Selectors dropped Karun Nair, the 33-year-old batter who made a stunning comeback during India’s drawn 2-2 series in England last year. Nair, remember, once smashed a triple century in Tests, but he managed just 205 runs across eight innings there, with a top score of 57 at The Oval. In his place, left-hander Devdutt Padikkal earns a spot, while B Sai Sudharsan holds onto his.
Former India spinner Amit Mishra didn’t hold back on the decision. “Nair got lucky with that comeback at his age—32, 33, or even 34,” Mishra told . “It was his shot to shine, but he played several games and just didn’t deliver.” Mishra added that it’s time to blood young talent. “Guys like Sai Sudharsan are performing well, and his technique stands out—he settles in, plays smart shots, and looks like a long-term prospect for the Indian Test team.”
India’s bowling attack looks sharp, especially the spinners. Axar Patel rejoins the group with vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar. Home pitches often turn for spin, and Mishra loves this mix. “Spin is our strength, particularly against West Indies,” he said. “They struggle when the wicket grips. We’ve got left-arm options from Axar and Jadeja, who bats too, plus Sundar and Kuldeep for variety. Expect at least two specialist spinners in the XI.”
This series is India’s second in the 2025-27 WTC cycle, where they sit third with 46.67 points. West Indies have zero so far, so it’s a prime opportunity for India to rack up a maximum of 24 points while testing out fresh faces.
Mishra praised the youth-focused approach, especially after chief selector Ajit Agarkar admitted the 3-0 home loss to New Zealand last year was a wake-up call. “Bringing in all these young players is smart,” Mishra said. “Domestic stars and IPL performers like them get a real shot now. Agarkar always picks the best side, and he’s on the right track.”
With Rishabh Pant sidelined by a fractured right foot, wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel steps into the spotlight. Mishra sees this as a golden era for rising stars. “Back in our day, you toiled for two or three years, then India A, before the big team,” he noted. “Now, one strong season can fast-track you. But once you’re in, keep the form going—score runs, stay fit, and your spot is yours.”
The message is clear: Perform, and the Indian Test team door stays open for the long haul.
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