IND vs WI 2025: India's probable playing XI against West Indies

Team India. (Photo source: BCCI)

The BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies, beginning October 2 in Ahmedabad. With Shubman Gill leading the side and Ravindra Jadeja as vice-captain, India have largely stuck with the core that toured England, while also accounting for injuries and home conditions. Given the spin-friendly nature of Indian pitches, the squad features multiple slow-bowling options.

On that note, let us take a look at India’s best probable XI for the series: Top-Order: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan KL Rahul (Source: Twitter)

India are expected to open with KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, the same pair that piled up more than 400 runs each in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 against England. Jaiswal will likely take on the aggressive role, while Rahul anchors the innings. Rahul is currently featuring in India A’s unofficial Test against Australia A, fine-tuning his red-ball form.

At No. 3, Sai Sudharsan looks the most likely candidate. He has been in solid touch for India A and contributed valuably during the England tour. With the spot often under scrutiny, all eyes will be on Sudharsan to seize his chance in this series.

Middle-order: Shubman Gill (C), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Dhruv Jurel (WK) Shubman Gill (Source: Twitter)

India captain Shubman Gill will marshal the middle order. He was India’s top scorer in the England series with a remarkable 754 runs, guiding the side to a hard-fought 2-2 draw. Having also taken up vice-captaincy duties in the Asia Cup 2025, Gill will look to continue his golden run in Tests.

The vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja remains India’s most seasoned all-rounder. While his bowling impact was limited in England, conditions in India will once again make his spin a key weapon against West Indies. Jadeja also provided crucial runs with the bat in the middle order.

The wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel is expected to feature in Rishabh Pant’s absence due to injury. Jurel has been impressive in domestic cricket and for India A, and this series presents him with a prime opportunity to cement his place.

Lower-middle order: Axar Patel, Washington Sundar Washington Sundar (Source: Twitter)

Axar Patel and Washington Sundar are likely to bolster the lower middle order. Axar, currently part of India’s Asia Cup campaign, has proved to be a consistent performer in Tests with his left-arm spin, which will be especially threatening in home conditions.

Washington, meanwhile, adds depth with both bat and ball. With Ashwin’s retirement leaving a void, Sundar has a real opportunity to establish himself as India’s next premier off-spinner while also chipping in with vital runs.

Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj Mohammed Siraj. (Photo source: BCCI)

India’s spin-heavy attack will be rounded off by Kuldeep Yadav, who missed out during the England series but has been in fine form on spin-friendly UAE tracks in the Asia Cup. His wrist-spin offers a different dimension to the attack.

In the pace department, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will spearhead the new-ball challenge. While spin is expected to dominate on Indian pitches, both pacers remain vital for early breakthroughs with the swinging new ball.

India’s probable XI vs West Indies:

KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (C), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj