IND vs SA 2025: Temba Bavuma back as captain in South Africa's Test squad versus India

Cricket South Africa has announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against India, set to begin on November 14 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, followed by the second Test in Guwahati from November 22. The biggest development is the return of Temba Bavuma as captain after recovering from a left calf strain that sidelined him during South Africa’s tour of Pakistan. 

Bavuma sustained the injury during an ODI against England last month and missed the start of South Africa’s World Test Championship title defence. In his absence, South Africa managed to level the Test series 1-1 against Pakistan, thanks to their spin trio of Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, and Senuran Muthusamy, who have all retained their places for the India series. The batting lineup sees Bavuma slot back into the middle order, alongside Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Zubayr Hamza, and Ryan Rickelton, while Kyle Verreynne continues as the designated wicketkeeper.

South Africa’s pace attack will once again be around Kagiso Rabada, supported by Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Wiaan Mulder. Meanwhile, Prenelan Subrayen misses out after featuring in Pakistan, as the team has gone with three frontline spinners suited for Indian conditions. Notably, David Bedingham, who did not play in the Pakistan Tests and has been left out. Head coach Shukri Conrad stated about backing the same squad.

"We've kept the bulk of the squad that competed in the two-match series against Pakistan. Those players showed real character and fought hard to come from behind and draw that series. "We are anticipating a similar challenge in India, and many of the players who stood up in those conditions will once again be key for us," Conrad said as quoted by Cricbuzz.

South Africa Test squad for India series:

Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Dewald Brevis, Zubayr Hamza, Tony de Zorzi, Corbin Bosch, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Simon Harmer

India vs South Africa 2025 Test Schedule: