India Predicted XI For 2nd Test vs South Africa: Big Changes After Eden Gardens Test Loss?

India head into the second Test match against South Africa in Guwahati under pressure after their shocking defeat at the Eden Gardens, where the team was bowled out for 93 runs in the second innings, raising serious questions about their batting depth and middle-order stability. With the series on the line, India are forced to rethink their combination, especially after captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury during the first Test.

Sources indicate that Gill is highly unlikely to play the second Test. As his recovery continues, the team management is reportedly ready to make key adjustments to the playing XI — some expected, some bold.

Here is a detailed breakdown of India’s predicted playing XI, expected changes, team news, and tactical assessment.

1. Opening Combination: Jaiswal & Rahul to Continue

Yashasvi Jaiswal

Despite failing to make an impact in the first Test, Yashasvi Jaiswal remains India’s most aggressive red-ball opener. His ability to dominate pace attacks makes him indispensable in home conditions.

KL Rahul

KL Rahul, who took on additional responsibilities including wicketkeeping earlier, is all set to open again. His experience and ability to absorb pressure will be critical after India’s batting collapse in Kolkata.

2. No. 3 Reinforced: Sai Sudharsan Returns

With Shubman Gill ruled out, Sai Sudharsan is expected to step back into the XI. Sudharsan has been consistent in domestic cricket and brings stability — something India desperately lacked in the first Test.

Washington Sundar, surprisingly promoted to No. 3 in Kolkata, will return to a more natural middle-order role.

3. Rishabh Pant at No. 4 — And Possibly Captain

With Gill out, Rishabh Pant is expected to lead the side. He performed much of the on-field leadership duties during the first Test and remains the team’s most explosive batting option in the middle order.

Pant at No. 4 gives India a counterattacking option, especially against South Africa’s fiery pace attack.

4. Middle Order: Jadeja, Jurel, Washington, Axar

Ravindra Jadeja

One of India’s most reliable all-rounders, Jadeja retains his spot at No. 5. His batting form and bowling control remain essential to team balance.

Dhruv Jurel

The team is expected to pick Dhruv Jurel as an additional specialist batter to avoid a repeat of the Kolkata collapse. Jurel brings calmness, maturity, and solid technique.

Washington Sundar

Washington returns to his ideal No. 7 position. His all-round ability makes him a crucial link between the upper and lower order.

Axar Patel

Axar Patel keeps his place, giving India depth in both batting and bowling. His height and accuracy continue to pose challenges to visiting batsmen on Indian pitches.

5. Spin Department: Kuldeep the Lone Specialist Spinner

The big call: India are likely to play only one specialist spinner, and that will be Kuldeep Yadav.

Kuldeep’s wrist spin has been highly effective in Indian conditions, and his recent form has made him nearly undroppable. With Jadeja, Axar, and Washington also able to bowl, India can afford to strengthen the pace attack.

6. Pace Attack: Bumrah & Siraj Lead the Charge

Jasprit Bumrah

Bumrah remains the cornerstone of India’s bowling. His reverse swing and accuracy will be vital in Guwahati’s conditions, which often assist seamers early on.

Mohammed Siraj

Siraj partners with Bumrah again, bringing aggression and movement off the pitch. He will be crucial in building early pressure on South Africa’s top order.

7. Wildcard Option: Nitish Kumar Reddy

There is some buzz around Nitish Kumar Reddy as a pace-bowling all-rounder option. While he may not make the final XI, his inclusion in team discussions suggests India are considering long-term solutions to strengthen their lower order and pace depth.

🔵 India Predicted XI For 2nd Test vs South Africa

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal

2. KL Rahul

3. Sai Sudharsan

4. Rishabh Pant (wk)

5. Ravindra Jadeja

6. Dhruv Jurel

7. Washington Sundar

8. Axar Patel

9. Kuldeep Yadav

10. Jasprit Bumrah

11. Mohammed Siraj

Tactical Breakdown: Why These Changes Make Sense

1. Strengthening the Middle Order

India’s collapse in Kolkata exposed the lack of a reliable No. 6/7 batter. Bringing in Jurel adds stability and depth.

2. One Frontline Spinner Strategy

With pitch conditions in Guwahati expected to be batting-friendly early on, India will rely more on pace. Kuldeep remains the X-factor spinner.

3. Pant’s Leadership

With Gill unavailable, Pant’s tactical acumen and on-field experience make him a natural choice to lead.

4. More Pace Options

Considering reports of grass on the Guwahati surface, India need more seam options — hence the consideration of Nitish Reddy as a backup.

FAQs

1. Is Shubman Gill playing the 2nd Test against South Africa?

No. Reports suggest that Gill is still recovering from a neck injury and is expected to be rested for the match.

2. Who will captain India in the 2nd Test?

Rishabh Pant is likely to take over as captain in Gill’s absence.

3. Will India make major changes after the Kolkata loss?

Yes. Sai Sudharsan is expected to return, Jurel likely comes in for stability, and India may play only one specialist spinner.

4. Will Nitish Kumar Reddy debut in the 2nd Test?

He is being considered as a pace-bowling all-rounder, but his inclusion in the final XI is uncertain.