The India vs South Africa Test series began with drama even before the first ball was bowled, as Kagiso Rabada was ruled out due to injury. Consequently, South Africa won the toss and opted to bat, breaking a seven-match losing streak at the toss in India. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill’s poor luck with the coin continued, extending his tally to seven losses in eight attempts.
South Africa Opt to Bat in India vs South Africa Test
Temba Bavuma chose to bat first in the India vs South Africa, making the call with confidence. He expected a good batting surface for the opening two days, and South Africa, after some thought, resisted the urge to stack their attack with spinners. Instead, they backed a three-seamer combination since each bowler can also contribute valuable runs down the order.
Corbin Bosch replaced Rabada, Wiaan Mulder returned at No. 3, and Bavuma slotted back into the middle order. Although conditions often tempt visiting teams to play an extra spinner, South Africa stuck to their balanced structure for this opening India vs South Africa Match.
India Make Bold Changes for India vs South Africa Test
For India, the India vs South Africa marked a significant shift in selection strategy. Washington Sundar was promoted to No. 3 as the team explored his long-discussed batting potential. This change meant B Sai Sudharsan had to sit out despite consistent recent appearances.
Moreover, Axar Patel returned to strengthen India’s spin attack, forming a four-spinner unit alongside Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. Importantly, India managed to retain their full first-choice pace attack of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, ensuring balance across conditions.
IND vs SA 1st Test begins today at 9:30 AM! 🏏🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) November 13, 2025
Who will take the series — the Proteas or the Men in Blue? 🇮🇳🇿🇦
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WTC Context for India vs South Africa Test
The India vs South Africa Test carries major World Test Championship implications. India entered the contest at No. 3 on the WTC table with 61.9% of available points, while defending champions South Africa sat at No. 5 with 50%. Although both teams arrived with contrasting recent form, the opening day promised a closely contested battle.
Playing XIs for India vs South Africa Match
India: Jaiswal, Rahul, Washington, Gill (capt), Pant (wk), Jadeja, Jurel, Axar, Kuldeep, Bumrah, Siraj
South Africa: Markram, Rickelton, Mulder, Bavuma (capt), de Zorzi, Stubbs, Verreynne (wk), Jansen, Bosch, Harmer, Maharaj
