As the countdown begins for India’s opening Test against the West Indies in Ahmedabad on October 2nd, 2025, all eyes turn to the predicted XI. This is the side expected to take the field. This two-Test series carries great importance, as it marks India’s start in the 2023–2025 ICC World Test Championship cycle.
A strong beginning is essential, especially with valuable WTC points at stake. While India enter the contest ranked as the number one Test side and fresh off an impressive 2–2 draw against England, the West Indies arrive with a point to prove after losing 3–0 to Australia. Yet, history reminds us that teams in transition can spring surprises, which makes India’s team selection even more important.
The expected XI brings together youth and experience. Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul are likely to open, with Rahul providing stability and Jaiswal bringing flair. At number three, Sai Sudharsan has shown enough temperament to handle the pressure of red-ball cricket.
Skipper Shubman Gill steps into the number four slot, taking on the responsibility of leadership as well as anchoring the batting. Devdutt Padikkal follows at number five, adding left-handed depth in the middle order. Behind the stumps, Dhruv Jurel has earned trust through his sharp glove work and valuable contributions with the bat.
Balance of All-Round Strength and Bowling Firepower
India’s all-rounders give them a decisive edge on home soil. Ravindra Jadeja, named vice-captain, continues to be indispensable. His left-arm spin and batting prowess make him a genuine match-winner. Washington Sundar complements him, offering off-spin variety along with the ability to shore up the lower order. Together, they create a balanced core that can dictate terms on turning pitches.
Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj take charge of the pace department, forming a partnership capable of striking early blows. Bumrah’s guile and Siraj’s aggression often unsettle even the best of batters.
Kuldeep Yadav recently underlined his growing stature with a decisive performance in the Asia Cup final, and his ability to extract turn and bounce could expose any weaknesses in the West Indies’ line-up. Though Axar Patel and Prasidh Krishna remain in contention, the expected conditions in Ahmedabad make it likely that India will rely on this chosen trio of Jadeja, Sundar, and Kuldeep to deliver.
India's Predicted Playing XI for the first Test against West Indies: Jaiswal, Rahul, Sudarshan, Gill (C), Padikkal, Jadeja (VC), Jurel (WK), Sundar, Kuldeep, Bumrah, Siraj
