Rishabh Pant Not Available, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy to Be Picked in Squad Against West Indies

Devdutt Padikkal and Nitish Kumar Reddy are set to be back in the mix for India’s Test squad as the selectors prepare to announce the team for the upcoming two-match series against West Indies at home.

Padikkal last played a Test in November 2024 against Australia in Perth. The stylish left-hander has only two Tests to his name but made a strong case for a recall earlier this month when he hammered 150 off 281 balls for India A against Australia A in Lucknow.

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who impressed in the England Tests before a knee injury cut short his series, is also in line for a return. While he didn’t feature in the first unofficial Test against Australia A, reports suggest he could play in the second four-day game starting September 23 in Lucknow.

Pant Still Out, Jurel likely to continue

India will once again be without Rishabh Pant, as the wicketkeeper-batter has not fully recovered from his foot injury sustained in England. Dhruv Jurel, who filled in behind the stumps in that series, is expected to continue as India’s keeper.

Jurel has also made his presence felt with the bat, smashing a brilliant 140 against Australia A recently. His form adds depth to India’s lower order, something the team management values highly.

The selectors are expected to announce the squad in the coming days, with Padikkal and Reddy both strong contenders for a spot as India build towards the home series against the West Indies.