India’s selectors have announced the Test squad for the two-match home series against South Africa, with Rishabh Pant’s comeback marking a major highlight. However, the continued omission of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has sparked debate about his future in the longest format.

Pant, 26, makes his return to international cricket after recovering from a foot fracture sustained during the Manchester Test against England in July. He recently led India A to victory over South Africa A in Bengaluru, impressing with a match-winning 90-run knock in a tense fourth-innings chase.

The wicketkeeper-batter replaces N Jagadeesan in the 15-man squad, which will be captained by Shubman Gill. The first Test will be played in Kolkata from November 14, followed by the second in Guwahati from November 22.

Shami’s absence raises eyebrows

While Pant’s return bolsters India’s middle order and wicketkeeping depth, Shami’s absence from both the senior and India A squads remains a major talking point.

The 34-year-old, who last played a Test in the World Test Championship final against Australia in 2023, has now been overlooked for three consecutive Test series—against England, West Indies, and South Africa—despite reports suggesting he is fit and available.

Selectors appear to be leaning towards a younger pace battery, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj leading the attack, and Akash Deep making a return after recovering from a shoulder injury.

Interestingly, Shami’s recent Ranji Trophy form has been strong. He picked up 15 wickets in three matches, including a five-wicket haul against Gujarat, reinforcing his credentials as one of India’s most reliable red-ball performers.

Signs of transition in India’s pace lineup?

The omission may indicate a transition phase in India’s Test bowling setup. With Bumrah and Siraj as automatic choices and younger quicks like Akash Deep and Nitish Kumar Reddy getting opportunities, selectors may be looking ahead to the next cycle of the World Test Championship.

For now, Shami’s future in India’s red-ball plans appears uncertain. Whether this is a temporary omission or a sign of phasing out one of India’s most successful modern-day pacers remains to be seen.

India’s squad for South Africa Tests

Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC & WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep.