IND vs WI: India’s playing XI for the first Test in Ahmedabad against West Indies

The much-anticipated first Test between India and West Indies is set to commence on October 2 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This two-match series opens India’s 2025-26 Test season, with both teams eager to make their mark.

India, having recently won the Asia Cup, start as outright favourites, while the struggling West Indies face a challenging task on a greenish, seamer-friendly pitch expected to assist fast bowlers early on. The surface is a red-soil strip with a covering of around 4-5mm of grass, likely to provide some seam movement and extra bounce initially before gradually aiding spinners as the match progresses. Overcast and humid conditions with possible light rain forecasted could further assist the pacers on day one.

India will look to consolidate their strong position in the World Test Championship and exploit the weaknesses of a West Indies side missing key fast bowling options due to injury. The stakes are high for both sides as India aim to continue their dominance over the Windies, who have not beaten India in Tests since 2002 and not at home since 1994.

India’s predicted playing XI for the clash against West Indies in Ahmedabad Test

Yashasvi Jaiswal (Opening batter)– Yashasvi Jaiswal retains his opening spot after impressive performances against England, where he scored over 400 runs. His aggressive approach and ability to dominate from the outset make him crucial on a surface that might offer early movement. Recent practice sessions showed him in good touch, preparing for what could be challenging opening conditions.
KL Rahul (Opening batter)– KL Rahul returns as opening partner after fine-tuning his red-ball form in India A matches against Australia A. His technical expertise and patience make him ideal to negotiate the green pitch conditions early on. Having scored 400-plus runs in England alongside Jaiswal, this proven combination offers stability against challenging bowling conditions.
Sai Sudharsan (Top order batter)– Sai Sudharsan appears set for the crucial No. 3 position after solid contributions during the England tour and recent India A performances. His temperament and technique against both pace and spin make him suitable for the green track conditions where early wickets could be crucial.
Shubman Gill (Captain, Middle order batter) – Leading his first home Test series as captain, Shubman Gill occupies the No. 4 position where his experience and shot-making ability provide stability. Recent practice sessions showed him working hard against rising deliveries, preparing for the extra bounce expected from the grass-covered surface.
Devdutt Padikkal (Middle order batter)– Devdutt Padikkal appears to have won the selection battle for the middle order spot after impressive recent form including a 150 for India A against Australia A. His elegant stroke play and ability to handle pressure situations make him valuable in the middle order on challenging conditions.

Also READ: West Indies announces contracts for 2025-26 season, Kraigg Brathwaite dropped

Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper batter)– Jurel takes the gloves in Rishabh Pant’s absence due to injury, bringing recent leadership experience from India A captaincy. His keeping skills and batting ability in the lower middle order provide crucial balance, especially with challenging conditions expected early in innings.
Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-Captain, all-rounder)– Ravindra Jadeja‘s inclusion as vice-captain brings world-class left-arm spin, exceptional fielding, and valuable batting depth. His experience in Indian conditions and leadership qualities make him indispensable, particularly as the pitch is expected to aid spinners in later stages.
Washington Sundar (Spin All-Rounder)– Washington Sundar’s impressive performances in England cement his place as the off-spinning all-rounder. His batting ability in the lower order and tight bowling make him crucial for containing runs when pace bowlers need rest on the green surface.
Axar Patel (Spin all-rounder) – Axar Patel, known for his left-arm orthodox spin, Axar offers control and wicket-taking ability in subcontinental conditions. Though expected to share duties with Jadeja and Sundar, he adds variety and depth to the spin arsenal.
Jasprit Bumrah (Lead pace bowler)– Despite the quick turnaround from Asia Cup duty, Bumrah’s inclusion appears certain given the seam-friendly conditions. His ability to exploit green tracks with pace, accuracy, and movement makes him indispensable, though rotation might be considered for the second Test.
Mohammed Siraj (Pace bowler)– Mohammed Siraj partners Bumrah as the experienced pace duo, bringing recent India A match practice against Australia A. His consistent line and length, combined with ability to extract bounce and movement, make him ideal for the green pitch conditions.