India has officially unveiled its Test squad for the upcoming series against the West Indies. A major highlight from the announcement is the inclusion of Narayan Jagadeesan as the second wicketkeeper-batter, signaling growing confidence in his potential at the international level.
A Balanced Squad of Youth and Experience
Leadership and Core Players
Shubman Gill has been entrusted with the captaincy role, leading a youthful squad into the Caribbean challenge. Ravindra Jadeja, a seasoned campaigner, has been named vice-captain, offering both strategic input and experience to the relatively young side.
India’s Full Test Squad
- Captain: Shubman Gill
- Vice-Captain: Ravindra Jadeja
- Wicketkeepers: Dhruv Jurel, Narayan Jagadeesan
- Batters: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal
- All-rounders: Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav
Spotlight on Youth: A Generational Shift
Youngest Members Leading the Charge
Nitish Kumar Reddy, just 22 years old, is the youngest player in the squad. Close behind are Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan, both aged 23, showcasing India’s focus on grooming next-gen talent.
Veterans Still Central to Plans
Despite the youthful core, the squad is anchored by seasoned players like Ravindra Jadeja (36), KL Rahul (33), Mohammed Siraj (31), and Jasprit Bumrah (31). This blend of youth and experience is expected to provide both energy and stability.
Under-30 Core: Building the Future
India’s strategy is evident in the selection of nine players under the age of 30, including:
- Dhruv Jurel (24)
- Devdutt Padikkal (25)
- Washington Sundar (25)
- Shubman Gill (26)
- Narayan Jagadeesan (29)
- Prasidh Krishna (29)
These players reflect the team’s evolving roadmap for the longer format.
Narayan Jagadeesan: A Rising Star Behind the Stumps
Domestic and IPL Journey
Narayan Jagadeesan, representing Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket, has steadily risen through the ranks. In the IPL, he has played for both the Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, featuring in 13 matches across the 2020, 2022, and 2023 seasons. He has scored 162 runs with a strike rate of 110.20.
Record-Breaking Feats in List A Cricket
Jagadeesan made headlines in the Vijay Hazare Trophy by smashing 277 runs in a single innings—the highest individual score in List A cricket. He also holds the record for being the first male cricketer to score five consecutive centuries in List A matches, a testament to his consistency and mental toughness.
International Recognition
Jagadeesan received his maiden call-up to the Indian Test squad in July 2025 for the final Test against England, replacing the injured Rishabh Pant. Though he didn’t make his debut in that match—Dhruv Jurel retained the first-choice wicketkeeper slot—his selection was a clear indication of the selectors’ long-term vision.
Looking Ahead
As India prepares to face the West Indies, the squad reveals a carefully thought-out blend of proven match-winners and promising young talent. Jagadeesan’s inclusion, in particular, adds depth to the wicketkeeping department and reflects a broader transition strategy being adopted by Indian cricket.
