India's path to the World Test Championship final kicks off with the two-Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19 in Chennai. As two-time WTC finalists, India has 10 Tests remaining before the final next year.
Following the Bangladesh series, India will face New Zealand in a three-Test series and conclude the year with a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
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After the Test series against Bangladesh and before facing New Zealand, India will play a three-match T20I series against Bangladesh. Some key players from the Test squad may be rested for IND vs BAN T20Is. Here's a look at who might be sidelined for the T20I series.
Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj, a key bowler for India in Test matches, could be rested for the T20I series against Bangladesh due to workload concerns. Siraj played a crucial role in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. To ensure his availability and fitness for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand and the subsequent tour of Australia, the team management may choose to give him a break during the T20Is to mitigate the risk of injury from playing across formats without adequate rest.
Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant, Team India's standout wicketkeeper-batter, is making his return to Test cricket after almost 20 months. Following a life-threatening accident and a remarkable comeback, Pant has impressed with his performances, particularly in the T20 World Cup 2024, addressing any doubts about his form. As a crucial player for India in Tests, Pant is likely to play in all 10 upcoming Test matches. His workload will be managed carefully, and he is expected to focus exclusively on Test cricket until 2025 Champions Trophy.
Shubman Gill
You might be surprised, but Shubman Gill, who is often mentioned as a future captain for India, could be rested for the T20I series against Bangladesh. Although he recently captained India in T20Is against Zimbabwe and was named vice-captain for the white-ball formats, the team management might opt to manage his workload carefully. With a demanding Test season ahead, Gill could be benched for the T20Is to ensure he remains fresh for the longer format.