Bhubaneswar: South Africa have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against India, with skipper Temba Bavuma making his return to lead the side. The announcement was confirmed by Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday.
Bavuma, who missed the previous series against Pakistan due to injury, resumes captaincy duties as the Proteas prepare for a demanding assignment in subcontinental conditions. Head coach Shukri Conrad has opted for consistency, retaining the core group that secured a 1-1 draw against Pakistan earlier this year.
“We are anticipating a similar challenge in India, and many of the players who stood up in those conditions will once again be key for us,” Conrad said while unveiling the squad.
The selectors have leaned heavily on spin options, naming a three-pronged spin attack featuring Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, and Senuran Muthusamy. Muthusamy, who was recently named Player of the Series against Pakistan, will be a key figure on turning Indian pitches.
The pace attack will be led by Kagiso Rabada, supported by the versatile Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder, ensuring a balanced bowling lineup suited to both pace and spin-friendly conditions.
South Africa’s Test Squad For India:
Temba Bavuma (Captain), Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Ryan Rickelton, Kyle Verreynne (Wicketkeeper), Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis.
The series will mark South Africa’s first Test tour of India since 2019. The first Test is scheduled to begin in Kolkata on November 14, followed by the second Test in Guwahati from November 22–26.
With Bavuma’s return providing leadership stability and a spin-heavy attack ready for Indian conditions, the Proteas will aim to script a strong performance and build on their recent resurgence in Test cricket.
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