IND vs SA 1st Test: Team India's maestro batter Virat Kohli has reportedly joined the Indian squad ahead of the upcoming India vs South Africa 1st test in Centurian. Kohli had left the squad midway due to a "family emergency" and flew to London, earlier this week. 



The exact reasons why Virat Kohli had to leave the Indian team midway and fly to London is still known, however, it can be ascertained that he received the BCCI's approval for the same.



Reportedly, Virat Kohli's decision to fly to London was a planned one and all the members of the squad as well as the BCCI were well aware of it. 



?Virat Kohli wasn?t going to play that game [intra-squad match]. The team management was aware of his plan and schedule, and it isn?t something which happened overnight or due to a family emergency. Look at the player in question, it?s Virat Kohli. He is very well planned regarding these things and his London trip was communicated and planned well in advance,? says a senior BCCI official.



The official further revealed that after Virat joined the Indian squad on December 15, he had a few very good net sessions with the boys. Now that he is back with the squad the batter is likely to undergo another few rounds of the net session before the 1st test on December 26.



?Kohli left India for South Africa on December 15. Had good 3-4 training sessions before he went to London on December 19. For the next few days, he was in London and has now linked up with the Test squad and will in all likelihood train in Centurion tomorrow,? adds the official.



The ongoing India tour of South Africa is at its climax with only a two-game test series remaining to be played. The tour comprised a three-game T20I series followed by as many games ODI series and a two-match test series. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IND vs SA Test Series Updates</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/06/Fyo2S7SaAAEeoUD-1.jpg" alt="IND vs SA 1st Test: Virat Kohli joins Team India for India vs South Africa 1st Test" class="wp-image-115148" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan to move NCA ahead of India's West Indies Tour</figcaption></figure>



The India-South Africa 1st test begins at the SuperSport Park in Centurian on boxing day and the second game of the series will begin on January 3 in the Newlands, Cape Town.



Notably, Team India had to undergo a couple of changes to the test squad ahead of the India vs South Africa test series. The team would miss the services of veteran pacer Mohammad Shami, who didn't get the clearance from the BCCI's medical outfit to feature in the test series due to some medical issues.



Opener Ruturaj Gaikwad and wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan are other players to miss the series, though they were initially named in the squad. While Gaikwad is ruled out after suffering a finger injury, Ishan Kishan has opted out of the test series due to "mental fatigue."



Below is Team India's squad for the South Africa test series: 



India Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Prasidh Krishna, KS Bharat (wk), Abhimanyu Easwaran.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-sa-south-african-dean-elgar-to-retire-from-international-cricket-after-india-vs-south-africa-test/">IND vs SA: South African Dean Elgar to retire from international cricket after India vs South Africa Test</a>



For more details head to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICC?s&nbsp;</a>official website.<a href="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/plugins/gumlet/assets/images/pixel.png"></a>

IND vs SA 1st Test: Virat Kohli joins Team India for India vs South Africa 1st Test

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IND vs SA 1st Test: India's Playing11: It can be, now, said that the sheen of test cricket, the traditional form of the sport, has been revived in the last couple of years. Unlike earlier, there is huge excitement among the fans for the test series happening around the world and it gets bigger if it has something to do with Team India, who is set to play a two-game test series against South Africa.



India and South Africa will lock horns in the first of the two-match test series at the SuperSport Park in Centurian on December 26. The fixture is just one night away as we write this article for you.



While India will aim to win their maiden series in South Africa and become the second Asian side to conquer the Protean land, South Africa will have the sole objective of not allowing the opposition to do so.



In 2021-22, Team India managed to defeat South Africa in the first test, but the home side turned the tables in the next two games to deny Team India their first series win in South Africa.



In good news for the Indian side, star batter Virat Kohli has rejoined the Indian contingent after abruptly leaving the team midway due to personal reasons. 



The key to winning in South Africa would begin with picking the right playing11 for the fixtures. Though India will be short on the playing options, they would not feel the urgent need for any special player.



Let's now discuss India's Playing11 picked by former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IND vs SA 1st Test: India's Playing11</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/07/Virat-Kohli-Ravindra-Jadeja-1.jpg" alt="IND vs SA 1st Test: India's Playing11, Rohit-Jaiswal to open, Gill at 3, Ashwin-Jadeja pair picks Sunil Gavaskar" class="wp-image-116846" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pic - Twitter</figcaption></figure>



Sunil Gavaskar came up with some interesting playing combinations for the Indian team ahead of the 1st IND vs SA test. The former cricketer turned analyst seemed to be impressed with Yashasvi Jaiswal and paired him alongside captain Rohit Sharma in the opening slot.



Shubman Gill, who usually opens with Rohit, was pushed down to number three by Gavaskar. The third position belonged to Cheteshwar Pujara earlier, but the batter has been dropped from the squad recently.



Virat Kohli retained his fourth place followed by KL Rahul at five, who will also have the added responsibility of wicketkeeping. Shreyas Iyer is placed at number 6 followed by two all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin at seventh and eighth positions.



Gavaskar picked three pacers - Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami and Mukesh Kumar - as his three pace bowling options.



?My playing XI is gonna be very simple. The openers will be Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma - the captain. No.3 Shubman Gill, No.4 - Kohli, No. 5 KL Rahul, and No.6 Shreyas Iyer. 5 and 6 can move, and after that will be Ravindra Jadeja and?Ravichandran Ashwin," Gavaskar told?Star Sports.



Then I'll have three fast bowlers - Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj," Gavaskar added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">India's Playing11 against South Africa 1st Test</h2>



Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Mukesh Kumar.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2024-csk-captain-ms-dhoni-expected-to-be-fit-to-play-in-the-tata-ipl-2024-chennai-super-kings/#google_vignette">IPL 2024: CSK Captain MS Dhoni expected to be fit to play in the Tata IPL 2024 | Chennai Super Kings</a>



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IND vs SA 1st Test: India's Playing11, Rohit-Jaiswal to open, Gill at 3, Ashwin-Jadeja pair picks Sunil Gavaskar

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IND vs SA Live: India are back in action in the red-ball format as they are scheduled to play a two-match Test series in South Africa starting 26 December. India have never won a Test series in South Africa, is it time to make some alteration in the numbers? The stage is all set for IND vs SA 1st Test and in this post, you will read When And Where To Watch The IND vs SA Test Match Live.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#ind-vs-sa-1st-test-match-2023-live-streaming-details">IND vs SA, 1st Test Match 2023: Live Streaming Details</a></li><li class=""><a href="#streaming-and-broadcasting-details">Streaming and Broadcasting Details</a></li><li class=""><a href="#ind-vs-sa-test-schedule">IND vs SA Test Schedule</a></li><li class=""><a href="#india-vs-south-africa-1st-test-team-squads">India vs South Africa 1st Test Team Squads</a></li></ul></nav></div>



When it comes to winning a Test Series in South Africa, there are just a handful number of teams that have achieved the feat; England, Australia, and Sri Lanka. India have played eight test series in South Africa and have lost 7 of them with one ending in a draw. Of the 23 Tests India have played in South Africa they've won a paltry four.?



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/12/6d8a98b17e045005a99d0eabfe89458a_original-1.jpg" alt="IND vs SA Live: When And Where To Watch The IND vs SA Test Match Live? Check Out For Full Details" class="wp-image-124500" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IND vs SA</figcaption></figure>



The Men in Blue haven't played a single match in the format since their 1-0 victory over the West Indies back in July this year. They are also at the top of ICC WTC Points Table 2023-25 with 66.67 PCT points. While South Africa haven't played any test match in the new cycle of the World Test Championship, this series will serve as their first in the cycle.



South Africans will experience the weight of their past. They are not as good as they have been in previous home series versus India, especially with Dean Elgar's 37.28 average being one of only three players averaging above thirty.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/12/India-vs-South-Africa-3-1.jpg" alt="IND vs SA Live: When And Where To Watch The IND vs SA Test Match Live? Check Out For Full Details" class="wp-image-124501" /></figure>



Temba Bavuma and Rohit Sharma will play their first match since their national teams were eliminated from the World Cup in India last month. For these proud leaders, winning this series won't make their disappointment go away, but losing would be equally heartbreaking.



Down below, you will read read When And Where To Watch The IND vs SA Test Match Live:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-sa-1st-test-match-2023-live-streaming-details">IND vs SA, 1st Test Match 2023: Live Streaming Details</h2>



~When will the IND vs SA First Test match be played? IND vs SA 1st test match will be played from Tuesday, 26 December 2023- Saturday 30 December 2023.



~What is the timing of the India vs South Africa 1st Test match? The IND vs SA 1st Test will begin at 01:30 PM IST on Sunday and the toss will be at 1:00 PM.



~Venue of the first Test match between India and South Africa? The first Test match between India and South Africa will be played at SuperSport Park, Centurion.



~Where can to watch the IND vs SA 1st Test match on TV in India? India vs South Africa 1st Test match will be telecasted live on Star Sports Network TV channels. You can catch the live action in the Disney+ Hotstar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="streaming-and-broadcasting-details">Streaming and Broadcasting Details</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Country</td><td>Channel</td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td><td>Fox Sports Networks and Channel</td></tr><tr><td>India</td><td>Star Sports Networks and Disney+ Hotstar App</td></tr><tr><td>South Africa</td><td>Sky Sports Networks</td></tr><tr><td>UK</td><td>Sky Sports</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/cricket-team/icc-teams/pakistan/">Pakistan</a></td><td>Ten Sports Pakistan</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/cricket-team/icc-teams/sri-lanka/">Sri Lanka</a></td><td>PEO TV</td></tr><tr><td>Carebbian</td><td>Flow Sports</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-sa-test-schedule">IND vs SA Test Schedule</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Matches</td><td>Dates</td><td>Timings</td><td>Venue</td></tr><tr><td>SA vs IND 1st Test</td><td>Dec 26- Dec 30 '23</td><td>1:30 PM</td><td>SuperSport Park, Centurion</td></tr><tr><td>SA vs IND 2nd Test</td><td>Jan 3- Jan 7 '24</td><td>1:30 PM</td><td>Newlands, Cape Town</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="india-vs-south-africa-1st-test-team-squads">India vs South Africa 1st Test Team Squads</h2>



India Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shardul Thakur, Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah.



South Africa Squad: Temba Bavuma, David Bedingham, Tony de Zorzi, Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Keegan Petersen, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Nandre Burger, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, and Kagiso Rabada.



READ:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dream11-prediction-dream11-team-india-vs-south-africa-supersport-park-cricket-stadium-centurion-pitch-report/"> IND vs SA 1st Test Dream11 Prediction, Dream11 Team?</a>



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IND vs SA Live: When And Where To Watch The IND vs SA Test Match Live? Check Out For Full Details Of IND vs SA 2023

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IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma's biggest mental challenge during India vs South Africa 1st Test: The butterflies can already be felt in the stomachs of the cricket fans who have fallen in love with the traditional form of the sport as Team India gears up to face mighty South Africa in their den. India will return to the red ball format after four long months and it is going to be a crazy challenge for the Indians to conquer the Proteas, who have been impeccable in their home soil.



The India vs South Africa two-game Test series begins on December 26 at the SuperSport Park in Centurian. The IND vs SA fixture will get underway at 1:30 PM.



Notably, the test series will also mark the presence of veteran players with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah among others coming under a hood after the ICC World Cup 2023. 



The last time India toured South Africa in 2021, the scoreline remained 2-1 in favour of the Proteas. Despite claiming the first test convincingly, India lost two consecutive games to lose the well-set three-game test series in the last tour in 2021-22.



Interestingly, this will be Rohit Sharma's first test series in South Africa as the leader of the side. The flamboyant batter had to miss out on the last South Africa test tour as he copped a blow in his hamstring.



The upcoming two-game series will be his chance to rewrite India's name in the history books by becoming the second Asian side to defeat South Africa in a test series. Back in 2019, Sri Lanka became the first Asian team to defeat Proteas in a test series.



However, playing test cricket is no mean task in South Africa, especially for the batters. While the bowlers enjoy their outing in this part of the world, the batters have seemingly struggled to get going. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IND vs SA: Biggest Challenge for Rohit Sharma in South Africa Test</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/07/Rohit-Sharma-IND-vs-WI.jpg" alt="IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma's biggest mental challenge during India vs South Africa 1st Test reveals Sunil Gavaskar" class="wp-image-116897" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rohit Sharma during IND vs WI 2nd Test | AFP/Getty Image</figcaption></figure>



Pointing out a couple of challenges for Rohit Sharma, former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes the foremost challenge for the Indian captain would be to shift his mental state from ODIs to red-ball cricket.



"First and foremost, the challenge would be to get your mental state into a Test match situation. He has been batting in the ODI format where he had decided that he was going to be playing the attacking role and try and score as many runs as possible in the first 10 overs of field restrictions," Gavaskar said.?



The cricketer-turned-analyst added that Rohit Sharma would ensure that Team India reaches a comfortable score at the end of the day, should he remain unbeaten.



"He has to think in terms of batting the whole day. If he bats the whole day, then clearly, with the range of shots he has got, he will be able to end up with 150-plus not, then India will be 300-plus or 350-plus," he added.



Interestingly, Rohit Sharma has been instrumental in consistently giving Team India brisk starts. The right-handed batter has taken his odd chances in the first few overs to keep the scoreboard ticking and that has certainly worked for the team as well. 



However, executing such a strategy in South Africa against the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Gerald Coetzee and Lungi Ngidi would need enormous concentration. It remains to be seen how Rohit Sharma plans his innings as the Protea pacers would go the extra mile to take his wicket as early as possible.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-indias-playing11-rohit-jaiswal-to-open-gill-at-3-ashwin-jadeja-pair-picks-sunil-gavaskar/">IND vs SA 1st Test: India?s Playing11, Rohit-Jaiswal to open, Gill at 3, Ashwin-Jadeja pair picks Sunil Gavaskar</a>



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IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma's biggest mental challenge during India vs South Africa 1st Test reveals Sunil Gavaskar

ind-vs-sa-rohit-sharmas-biggest-mental-challenge-during-india-vs-south-africa-1st-test-reveals-sunil-gavaskar

IND vs SA Day 1: On Wednesday, December 26, India will play South Africa in the opening Test of the two-match series at SuperSport Park, Centurion. This will be the first match of South Africa in the new cycle of WTC. It doesn't seem to be an ideal day for a match as there are more than 70% rain chances in Centurion today and this article will lead you through the IND vs SA Day 1 Weather Forecast and Pitch Report of SuperSport Park, Centurion.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#ind-vs-sa-day-1-weather-forecast">IND vs SA Day 1 Weather Forecast</a></li><li class=""><a href="#ind-vs-sa-day-1-pitch-report">IND vs SA Day 1 Pitch Report</a></li></ul></nav></div>



Temba Bavuma and Rohit Sharma will play their first match since their teams' traumatic exit from the World Cup in India last month. This series plays an important role for both teams in the context of the World Test Championship Points table. A win or loss will impact their standings in the WTC Points table so it will be interesting to see what would be the approach of the captains of both sides.



So far, India has played eight Test series in South Africa; seven of those series have ended in losses, with one ending in a draw. In twenty-three Test matches played in South Africa, they have only managed four victories. Nevertheless, they have triumphed in three of their last five Test matches against the Proteas, including a match on Boxing Day at SuperSport Park during the trip in 2021?2022, under Virat Kohli's captaincy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/12/India-vs-South-Africa-3-1.jpg" alt="IND vs SA Live: When And Where To Watch The IND vs SA Test Match Live? Check Out For Full Details" class="wp-image-124501" /></figure>



The team captained by Rohit Sharma looks set to start with a revamped starting lineup, with Mohammed Shami, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara being left out. Leading pacers Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi of South Africa are anticipated to return after sitting out the white-ball series against India, and young player Tristan Stubbs may make his Test debut.



India got a few blows as Ruturaj Gaikwad and Mohammed Shami were ruled out of the series owing to injuries. However, the team got their replacement but couldn't see any foot to fit in Shami's shoes in the squad.



Down below is the IND vs SA Day 1 Weather Forecast and Pitch Report of SuperSport Park, Centurion:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-sa-day-1-weather-forecast">IND vs SA Day 1 Weather Forecast</h2>



India vs South Africa (India tour of South Africa 2023) | India vs South Africa 1st Test match will be played at SuperSport Park, Centurion from December 26 to December 30 starting at 10:30 AM Local and 1:30 PM IST.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/12/centurian.png" alt="IND vs SA Day 1 Weather Forecast and Pitch Report of SuperSport Park, Centurion| South Africa vs India 1st Test" class="wp-image-124517" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IND vs SA Day 1 Weather Forecast (<a href="https://weather.com/en-IN/weather/hourbyhour/l/18f418fcb6ff7c40b4fde21dcfc19f5794d54dd67694761eabca009abcf4a043" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather.com</a>)</figcaption></figure>



ACC TO WEATHER.COM, the weather is predicted to be overcast throughout the day. As the weather websites show, there are high chances of rain on Day 1 which makes it not an ideal day for a test match to begin. A ~50% chance of rain is predicted in the morning and it keeps increasing to ~85% in the evening. It seems rain is going to interrupt the match throughout the day. The Temperature in the morning is expected to be around 19? C and is expected to rise to 22?C the day.



Winds with a speed of around 15-20KMPH will gust towards the Northeast. Humidity will stay at the higher end at 80% (around 78% in the morning and falls to 81% in the evening). So, the possibilities of rain are always but we can hope for some game on day 1 of the IND vs SA 1st test match.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-sa-day-1-pitch-report">IND vs SA Day 1 Pitch Report</h2>



In red-ball cricket, Centurion's SuperSport Park provides decent support for pace bowlers. The pitch curator has disclosed that starting on Day 1, both sides may anticipate a surface that is conducive to pace. Extra bounce and seam for the bowlers have also been confirmed by India's head coach Rahul Dravid.



Since the Pacers have typically dominated at SuperSport Park, it is anticipated that both sides would use extra quick options in their bowling attacks on Boxing Day. But after the ball becomes old, the hitters are also expected to score large runs.



READ:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-sa-live-when-and-where-to-watch-the-ind-vs-sa-test-match-live-check-out-for-full-details-of-ind-vs-sa-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> IND vs SA Live: When And Where To Watch The IND vs SA Test Match Live? Check Out For Full Details Of IND vs SA 2023</a>



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IND vs SA Day 1 Weather Forecast and Pitch Report of SuperSport Park, Centurion| South Africa vs India 1st Test

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IND vs SA 1st Test: South Africa has copped a big blow after their skipper Temba Bavuma was revealed to have suffered a left hamstring injury on day one of the ongoing India vs South Africa 1st test in Centurian. The South African medical team will closely monitor the batter through the course of the 1st test.



Unfortunately, Temba Bavuma had to leave the field, early on day one of the IND vs SA 1st test, after sustaining an injury in his left hamstring. 



The incident took place in the 20th over of the innings when Bavuma was chasing a ball off Virat Kohli's blade. Though Bavuma managed to stop the delivery in the extra cover regions, he looked in discomfort as he clutched his hamstring and walked off the field.



Veteran batter Dean Elgar spearheaded the South African side post-Bavuma's exit in the 1st session of the IND vs SA test at the SuperSport Park.



During the course of the game, the commentators revealed that Temba Bavuma has suffered an injury to his left hamstring and the Proteas medical team would continue to monitor him for the remainder of the fixture. Cricket South Africa (CSA) is yet to comment on Bavuma's further participation in the test series. 



Notably, the South African captain played with a right hamstring injury in his last international game during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 in India. The batter picked up the injury on his right hamstring during the group-stage fixture against Afghanistan. However, he looked unfazed by it and took the field in the next fixture against Australia in the semi-final 1. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IND vs SA 1st Test Highlights</h2>



Meanwhile, talking about the IND vs SA 1st Test, the home side remained on top with Team India reeling at a score of 208 runs in the loss of 8 wickets. Senior pacer Kagiso Rabada led the assault against Team India and picked his maiden fifer against the opposition.



India seemed to be in an uncomfortable position at one stage when the wickets were consistently falling, however, wicketkeeper batter KL Rahul's unbeaten knock of 70 runs has steadied things a bit. Owing to his classy innings, Team India has now a respectable total on the board with 2 more wickets in hand.



Besides KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer were dismissed in their 30s while Shardul Thakur played 24 run innings.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-south-africa-why-is-ravindra-jadeja-not-playing-in-the-first-test-match-against-south-africa/">India vs South Africa: Why is Ravindra Jadeja not playing in the first Test match against South Africa?</a>



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IND vs SA 1st Test: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma suffers left hamstring injury during 1st Test against India

ind-vs-sa-1st-test-south-africa-captain-temba-bavuma-suffers-left-hamstring-injury-during-1st-test-against-india

Things are not at all going right for the Indian team currently at the moment in Test cricket. Amid all this, a fresh set of reports has emerged in the media, which has suggested that Virat Kohli might be back at the helm of things as a leader in Test cricket. 
Virat Kohli, who is the most successful Test captain of India, has expressed his desire to take over the Test captaincy of India. As per the reports in RevSportz, it is learned that the senior batter wants to continue playing till 2027 as he wants to give his best for the team and help them. 
There were reports in Indian Express, which claimed that one senior batter in the team, ahead of the series, had made his thought that he would be eyeing the captaincy and had mentioned at the start that he would be doing something special in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
Virat Kohli, who is expected to be that senior player, feels that he can help the team in the transition phase. He has touted himself as the ‘Mr Fix-It’, and he believes that no youngster so far is ready to take the charge and wants to take over the captaincy on an interim basis. 
<h2>Virat Kohli expressing his desire to take over the leadership role means that Rohit Sharma's tenure as the captain of the team is all set to end</h2>
Virat Kohli expressing his desire to take over the leadership role means that Rohit Sharma's tenure as the captain of the team is all set to end. The skipper of the team has come under massive scrutiny following his poor efforts in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
His poor performances with the bat, too, haven't helped his cause, as the captain has scored around 30 runs in the series. There have been several reports that have stated that Rohit Sharma might announce his retirement after the Sydney Test, which will be the last game of the series. 
Things are also not going right in the Indian dressing room. It is learned that senior players of the team aren't on the same page with Gautam Gambhir, and the head coach, too, hasn't been amazed by the way the players have played in the series so far. 
The Sydney Test will be a great opportunity for the entire team to reply to all the criticism. The match will be played from 3rd January and winning there will help the Rohit Sharma-led side to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/jasprit-bumrah-crushes-ravichandran-ashwin-to-become-the-first-india-bowler-to-/">Jasprit Bumrah crushes Ravichandran Ashwin to become the first India bowler to...</a>

Virat Kohli, who is the most successful Test captain of India, has expressed his desire to take over the Test captaincy of India

Virat Kohli wants India Test captaincy again, as he doesn't trust...

virat-kohli-wants-india-test-captaincy-again-as-he-doesn-t-trust-

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has come under massive scanner for his poor performances as the coach of the Indian team. But things are turning worse for him because of the team's disappointing effort in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
Gautam Gambhir has come under massive scrutiny as the things in the Indian dressing room are great. As per the reports in PTI, it is learned that the senior players of the team and the head coach are not on the same page related to the decisions in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
The reports added that some of the players of the team haven't shown their confidence in Gautam Gambhir. This is because of his experiments of playing 11 and the way he handled Shubman Gill, who was dropped from the team for the fourth Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
Some of the senior players are not feeling good with Gautam Gambhir. This is because they believe that communication isn't as good as it used to be during the time of Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid. This has come under the notice of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). 
<h2>If the performance doesn't improve, even Gautam Gambhir's position wouldn't be safe - BCCI source</h2>
The BCCI source said that Gautam Gambhir's position as a head coach isn't safe. He said that if results don't come good in the last match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 along with ICC Champions Trophy 2025 then he is likely to be sacked. Speaking to PTI, he said: 
"There is a Test match to be played and then there is Champions Trophy. If the performance doesn't improve, even Gautam Gambhir's position wouldn't be safe." 
The source, while calling Gautam Gambhir a "compromise", said that he wasn't even first choice for the role. He mentioned that VVS Laxman and other foreign coaches didn't want to take the role and hence he was given the opportunity. He added: 
"He was never BCCI's first choice (it was VVS Laxman) and some of the well-known overseas names didn't want to coach all three formats, so he was a compromise. Some other compulsions were also there." 
It remains to be seen how Gautam Gambhir bounces back from this situation. The India team will be next seen in action on 3rd January when they will be playing the next match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/-for-all-the-ups-downs-rohit-sharma-bids-adieu-to-/">"For all the ups &amp; downs" - Rohit Sharma bids adieu to.....</a>

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has come under massive scanner for his poor performances as the coach of the Indian team.

Gautam Gambhir to be sacked as reports of his poor equation with senior players puts him under gun

gautam-gambhir-to-be-sacked-as-reports-of-his-poor-equation-with-senior-players-puts-him-under-gun-

India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah dethroned Ravichandran Ashwin to become the highest-ever ranked bowler in the history of the Test rankings of ICC. The fast bowler achieved a rating point of 907, which no ever bowler from a has achieved. 
Jasprit Bumrah surpassed Ravichandran Ashwin's rating points of 904 to become the highest-ranked Indian bowler in the ICC rankings. The former Indian off-spinner achieved 904 rating points in December 2016 and scripted history, highlighting the legacy that he created. 
Jasprit Bumrah achieved the feat after his incredible performances with the ball in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. The fourth match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between the teams took place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, and it saw the hosts winning the match. 
Jasprit Bumrah picked 9 wickets in the match with a fifer in the second innings. Ahead of the match, the fast bowler had a rating of 904, and his exceptional performance saw him getting at the top of the list in the ICC Test rankings for bowlers in the longest format of the game. 
<h2>List of the highest rank Indian bowlers </h2>
Here's the list of the highest rank Indian bowlers 
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Name
</td>
<td valign="top">
Rating
</td>
<td valign="top">
Date
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Jasprit Bumrah
</td>
<td valign="top">
907
</td>
<td valign="top">
31 Dec 2024
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
R Ashwin
</td>
<td valign="top">
904
</td>
<td valign="top">
12 Dec 2016
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Ravindra Jadeja
</td>
<td valign="top">
899
</td>
<td valign="top">
20 Mar 2017
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Kapil Dev
</td>
<td valign="top">
877
</td>
<td valign="top">
19 Jan 1980
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Anil Kumble
</td>
<td valign="top">
859
</td>
<td valign="top">
30 Jan 1994
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Vinoo Mankad
</td>
<td valign="top">
811
</td>
<td valign="top">
17 Nov 1952
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Subhash Gupte
</td>
<td valign="top">
806
</td>
<td valign="top">
10 Jan 1956
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Bishan Singh Bedi
</td>
<td valign="top">
804
</td>
<td valign="top">
20 Dec 1977
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Dilip Doshi
</td>
<td valign="top">
794
</td>
<td valign="top">
3 Feb 1982
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Mohammed Shami
</td>
<td valign="top">
790
</td>
<td valign="top">
16 Nov 2019
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Jasprit Bumrah has been nothing short of exceptional in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He has been a major reason behind the team fighting hard in the series. The premier fast bowler has been single-handedly carrying the bowling lineup of the team. 
Jasprit Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker in the history of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The pacer has picked 30 wickets in the 4 games, and with one more match remaining in the series, he is expected to take a few more wickets for the team.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/-for-all-the-ups-downs-rohit-sharma-bids-adieu-to-/">"For all the ups &amp; downs" - Rohit Sharma bids adieu to.....</a>

India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah dethroned Ravichandran Ashwin to become the highest-ever ranked bowler in the history of the Test rankings of ICC.

Jasprit Bumrah crushes Ravichandran Ashwin to become the first India bowler to...

jasprit-bumrah-crushes-ravichandran-ashwin-to-become-the-first-india-bowler-to-

Team India have been going through a transition period at the moment. They have found themselves on the receiving end in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and are on the verge of getting eliminated from the World Test Championship final race.
India have retained the BGT trophy for ten years, and it looks like Australia will end that drought and regain the trophy as they are leading by 2-1 with one game left to play. Not just the performance; some reports are also claiming a rift in the Indian camp.
Team India have struggled badly in the series with the bat. The form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has not scored runs as they would have liked. That's where India would have liked a solid batter like Cheteshwar Pujara, who has had immense success on previous Australian tours and played a crucial role in India's BGT triumphs in the last two tours.
<h2>IND vs AUS: Ajit Agarkar declined Gautam Gambhir's request to pick Cheteshwar Pujara for BGT series - Reports</h2>
According to some media reports, the Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir wanted to include veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the Indian squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but Ajit Agarkar and his team declined his request. Pujara has done a great job on Australian soil and is one of the leading scorers in the BGT history. He knows the conditions well and has done well against the likes of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon.
Notably, Pujara scored the most runs in the BGT 2018-19 and finished the tournament with 521 runs at an average of 74.42 with three hundreds and one fifty when India won the first-ever test series on Australian soil. Then again, he scored 271 runs in the BGT 2020-21 and played crucial innings in Sydney and the historic Gabba win.
In Australia, the 36-year-old has played 11 tests and scored 993 runs at an average of 47.28. It has been learned that Gambhir even talked about Pujara's inclusion after India won the first test in Perth. But the Indian selection committee didn't approve his request.
Pujara played his last test match for India during the World Test Championship final 2023 at the Oval. His form declined after that but he has done well at the domestic level. Team India are currently struggling to score runs and they need a sound performance to level the series with a win at the SCG.
Also Read<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-reasons-why-resting-virat-and-rohit-from-england-odis-can-be-blunder-ahead-of-champions-trophy-2025/#google_vignette">: 3 Reasons why Resting Virat and Rohit from England ODIs can be blunder ahead of Champions Trophy 2025</a>

Cheteshwar Pujara scored the most runs for India during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2018-19 for India when India won the test series in Australia.

Gambhir vs Agarkar? Selection Committee declined Head Coach's request of Cheteshwar Pujara's inclusion for BGT 2024-25: Reports

gambhir-vs-agarkar-selection-committee-declined-head-coach-s-request-of-cheteshwar-pujara-s-inclusion-for-bgt-2024-25-reports

IND vs AUS 5th Test: India lost at Melbourne Cricket Ground on the boxing day test even after they were considered the better side at the MCG. Now, after conceding a massive 184-run loss in the fourth test, India and Australia are set to take a bout at Sydney Cricket Ground for the last time in the series and the first time in the year 2025.
The defeat at the MCG was a key moment in the series. Big names like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma failed to shine, and the middle order fell apart when the team needed them most. Australia’s star bowlers, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, made life difficult for India, showing their weakness in overseas conditions. This loss sparked heated discussions about India’s plans and preparation for away games.
The result shook Indian cricket, raising serious questions about Rohit Sharma’s captaincy and Virat Kohli’s form. Fans and experts began calling for changes, suggesting new players should get a chance to step up. With young talent waiting in the wings, all eyes were on the senior players to prove they could still perform under pressure.
With a scoreline of 2-1, Australia is dominating and is a high favorite for the trophy. The only hope for Indian side is that the last test is set to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. 
<h2>India's history at the SCG</h2>
The Indian cricket team’s last Test loss at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) came in January 2008 during the heated 2007–08 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia won by 122 runs in a game packed with drama, including the infamous "Monkeygate" controversy between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds. That defeat became a turning point for India, building the team’s resilience and setting the stage for stronger performances at the SCG in the years to come.
Since that 2008 loss, India hasn’t lost a Test at the SCG. A standout moment was the thrilling draw in January 2021, where Ravichandran Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari battled through injuries to save the match. Their gutsy effort helped India hold their ground and ultimately secure a historic series victory in Australia, earning widespread admiration.
India’s overall Test record at the SCG stands at 1 win, 5 losses, and 7 draws, with their only win dating back to 1978. The SCG holds a special place in India’s cricketing journey, filled with moments of struggle and triumph. From the heartbreak of 2008 to remarkable comebacks, India’s performances at the SCG showcase the team’s growth and determination in world cricket.
Match Played- 13 India Won- 01 Australia Won- 05 Draw- 07
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/indian-cricket-team-india-s-full-test-cricket-schedule-in-2025-they-will-face-these-teams/">Indian Cricket: Team India's full Test Cricket schedule in 2025, they will face these teams</a>

With immense pressure now on India, the history of Sydney gives some hope to the Indian team. The SCG journey reflects growth, from the controversial 2008 loss to unbeaten performances, including a heroic 2021 draw, showcasing resilience and evolving strength in overseas cricket.

India's SCG journey highlights resilience, overcoming setbacks like the 2008 loss and achieving iconic moments like the 2021 draw.  

India's Record at Sydney Cricket Ground Before the IND vs AUS 5th Test

india-s-record-at-sydney-cricket-ground-before-the-ind-vs-aus-5th-test

India captain Rohit Sharma bid adieu to 2024 in a staggering Instagram post. The senior batter posted a video on Instagram on Tuesday, December 31, of his best and worst moments of 2024. This comes amid the talks related to his retirement. 
Rohit Sharma had a roller coaster ride in 2024 as the captain had his best and worst part of his career. The India captain started the year on high as under him India won the Test match at Centurion and went on to draw the series. After that, he was at his best in the Test series against England. 
Rohit Sharma with the team full of youngsters won the Test series against England. Under his leadership, India won the five-match series by a massive margin of 4-1. He led from the front and also slammed two centuries in the series, helping the team win. 
After that, Rohit Sharma was at his best in the IPL as he was amongst the highest run-getters for Mumbai Indians. He also slammed the century there. He also returns to the T20Is before the Tests as slammed a century there as well. 
<h2>The best moment for Rohit Sharma was in June when under his leadership India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.</h2>
The best moment for Rohit Sharma was in June when under his leadership India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. He was the leading run-getter for the team in the tournament as he top-scored and helped the India team end their ICC title drought. 
Things didn't go well for Rohit Sharma after that. Since then has been going through a rough patch in the Tests. The India captain has failed to get going and under his leadership team faced the whitewash first time at home as they lost the series to New Zealand by the margin of 3-0. 
He is currently in Australia but things have been poor for him as well. The batter has scored just 31 runs in the three games and also under him India is behind in the series by 2-1. He has registered scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 and following this, there have been a lot of talks related to his retirement as well. 
He posted the video with caption: "For all the ups &amp; downs, and everything in between, Thank you 2024."
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEPoz8Ah2oV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">You can watch video here: </a>
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-changes-india-must-make-to-win-the-scg-test-to-retain-the-border-gavaskar-trophy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 changes India must make to win the SCG Test to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

"For all the ups & downs" - Rohit Sharma bids adieu to.....

-for-all-the-ups-downs-rohit-sharma-bids-adieu-to-

India is all set to lock horns with England in the three-match ODI series. This will be the only series for the Men in Blue before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and it will be extremely important for the team as they would want to look at their combination for the tournament. 
The ODI series between England and India will get underway from 6th February at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur. The second game of the series is scheduled to take place on 9th February in Cuttack, followed by the last match to be played on 12th at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. 
There have been several reports that have claimed that India will be playing the series in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. This is because BCCI wants their premier players to be rested and fresh for the ICC Champions Trophy 2024, which will be a crucial event for the team. 
If the reports emerge to be true, then it will be a massive problem for the Indian team that they will be playing without their captain. This has raised speculations about who will be leading the team in the three-match ODI series against the full-strength England team at home. 
<h2>Who will captain India in the absence of Rohit Sharma during England ODIs </h2>
With Rohit Sharma being rested for the three-match ODI series, it is expected that Shubman Gill will be captaining the team against England. The young batter was recently appointed as the vice-captain of the team in the white-ball format after the team went through the transition. 
It is expected that the squad for the England series will be similar to what India will be named for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Therefore, it will be a great opportunity for the young players who will be picked to make their case strong for the tournament. 
Shubman Gill, since the last few years, has been the best batter for India in the ODIs. He has shown his real class with the bat and would want to carry on the same form. He also was captain of the team during the T20I series against Zimbabwe and will be keen to replicate the same performance.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-changes-india-must-make-to-win-the-scg-test-to-retain-the-border-gavaskar-trophy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 changes India must make to win the SCG Test to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

There have been several reports that have claimed that India will be playing the series in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah

Who will captain India if Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli will be rested for England ODIs

who-will-captain-india-if-rohit-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-and-virat-kohli-will-be-rested-for-england-odis-

Team India are currently in Australia for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The fifth and final test will end on January 7; after that, India will play three T20Is and three ODIs against England at home between January 22 and February 12.
This will be the last three ODIs for India ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, and India will look to prepare for the upcoming mega event. However, there has been news that India might rest Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli.
Being India's premier pacer, Bumrah has been doing too much in Australia, but resting out-of-form Virat and Rohit might not be ideal. Hence, we will talk about three reasons why India should not rest Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from England ODIs.
<h2>Three reasons why India should not drop Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from England ODIs ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
1. Form of both players
Dropping a player who is struggling with form might not do good for the team. Both Virat and Rohit have struggled in Australia, and they are searching for runs badly. Consistent failures must have hurt their confidence as well. Hence, at home on Indian batting pitches, it can be ideal to get back to form. But if India rest them, they won't have the time to get back to form and will enter the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after a string of low scores.
2. Only ODIs to prepare for Champions Trophy 2025
Since the ODI World Cup 2023 at home, Rohit and Virat have only played three ODI matches. Though they have played test cricket consistently, ODI format is a different game altogether. Hence, to get back into rhythm, the upcoming ODI series against England can be perfect. At least England are going with the same team that will feature in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. That is why India must need to do and give the game time to their main batters whom you expect to fire in the mega event.
3. Managing Replacement
The form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is under scrutiny, and many questions have been raised about their position in tests. However, ODI cricket is a totally different format. But loss of form can sometimes hurt the confidence, and it can affect other formats as well. Hence, India should play them in England ODIs because if they fail, then they can pick the backup batters for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. That means if these two don't score runs against England, then India can take some hard decisions and pick other players as replacements.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-changes-india-must-make-to-win-the-scg-test-to-retain-the-border-gavaskar-trophy/">3 changes India must make to win the SCG Test to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

The Indian management is looking to rest Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from England ODIs ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025.

3 Reasons why Resting Virat and Rohit from England ODIs can be blunder ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

3-reasons-why-resting-virat-and-rohit-from-england-odis-can-be-blunder-ahead-of-champions-trophy-2025

Batting great Sunil Gavaskar gave a massive suggestion to the Indian team going forward in Test cricket. He said that the Rohit Sharma-led should keep an eye on Venkatesh Iyer for the red-ball cricket as he can be handy for the team. 
India hasn't been blessed with as many fast-bowling all-rounders as they would've wanted. After Kapil Dev, it was Hardik Pandya who took the mantle and has been doing a staggering job for the team in the white-ball cricket but his fitness hasn't supported him at all. 
Hardik Pandya played a few Tests for India but couldn't carry on in the format. The all-rounder last played in 2018 and, after that, has been focusing on white-ball cricket after that, India tried Shardul Thakur, and although he did a decent job, the quality wasn't there, and he was dropped. 
India now has included Nitish Kumar Reddy in the team and the all-rounder has been doing a great job in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He has shown great promise with the bat as he also slammed a magnificent century and helped the team tackle the trouble. 
But it's fair to say that the quality of the ball still has been lacking. Nitish Kumar Reddy hasn't been the best with the ball and hasn't bowled well, which has put an extra burden on Jasprit Bumrah, who has bowled around 140 overs in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
<h2>India must also keep an eye on Venkatesh Iyer, who can be another fine all-rounder and is a left-hander to bat - Sunil Gavaskar</h2>
Amid the debate around all-rounder, Sunil Gavaskar has suggested the name of Venkatesh Iyer, claiming that he can be a fine all-rounder for the team. He also pointed out that he played in the county. Writing in his column, he explained: 
"India must also keep an eye on Venkatesh Iyer, who can be another fine all-rounder and is a left-hander to bat. His bowling too can do with some work, but he has played in England and can be a very good option to have there," Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar. 
Venkatesh Iyer has already made his India debut, having played two ODIs and nine T20Is. He also played for Lancashire in the England summer earlier this year.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/indian-cricket-team-india-s-full-test-cricket-schedule-in-2025-they-will-face-these-teams/#google_vignette"> </a><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/indian-cricket-team-india-s-full-test-cricket-schedule-in-2025-they-will-face-these-teams/#google_vignette">Indian Cricket: Team India's full Test Cricket schedule in 2025, they will face these teams</a>

Batting great Sunil Gavaskar gave a massive suggestion to the Indian team going forward in Test cricket.

Not Hardik Pandya or Nitish Reddy, Sunil Gavaskar wants this fast-bowling all-rounder for Tests

not-hardik-pandya-or-nitish-reddy-sunil-gavaskar-wants-this-fast-bowling-all-rounder-for-tests-

After the end of the 2025 IPL Mega-Auction, a lot of teams have strengthened their respective batting units. The dominance of the batters is going to increase even more this time around in the Biggest T20 tournament in the entire world and it's going to be really interesting to see which teams walks out on to the field with the strongest batting unit. 
Every year, the batsmen create new records in the IPL and now the runs figure of 250 is looking pretty common these days. Not just this, scoring centuries has also become pretty common for the batters. In such a situation, let's take a look at 3 teams who have the strongest batting-unit in IPL 2025
<h3>Three IPL Teams who have the strongest batting-unit in IPL 2025:</h3>
<h3>1. Sunrisers Hyderabad</h3>
Pat Cummins-led Sunrisers Hyderabad will once again walk out on the field in the IPL with the strongest batting unit. The likes of Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen are a part of the squad of SRH and these players have the potential in them to dominate any opposition bowling unit. 
While Kishan is a new addition, the other four players were a part of the Hyderabad team in the previous edition of the tournament too and they wrecked havoc in the 2024 edition of the IPL as they crossed the 260 run mark twice verus the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and five time winners Mumbai Indians (MI).The presence of these four players and the addition of hard hitting Indian batter Ishan Kishan makes the IPL 2024 runners-up a force to reckon with. 

<h3>2. Kolkata Knight Riders</h3>
IPL 2024 winners and reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are blessed to have a solid and a strong batting unit ahead of IPL 2025. The presence of the likes of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Quinton de Kock and Ajinkya Rahane can target any bowler from the word go. The aggressive batting nature of Gurbaz, De Kock, Narine and Venky Iyer along with the solid middle order presence of the duo of Russell and Rinku make the team of KKR look like a complete and a really formidable one. The Reigning Champs are surely going to be a dangerous side to bowl against.

<h4>3. Delhi Capitals </h4>
After the conclusion of the 2025 IPL Mega-Auction, the Delhi Capitals managed to include some really incredible batters in their squad which consists of the likes of KL Rahul, Tristan Stubbs, Jack Fraser McGurk and Harry Brook. Besides them, the presence of experienced all-rounder Axar Patel provides a lot of stability to their middle-order. This time around, the Delhi franchise have set up themselves as a batting-heavy team, which will create a lot of difficulties for the opposition bowlers.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-csk-s-strongest-playing-11-if-conway-and-ravindra-miss-the-start-of-ipl-2025/">IPL: CSK's strongest Playing 11 if Conway and Ravindra miss the start of IPL 2025</a>

Many IPL teams have strengthened their squads after the end of the 2025 Mega-Auction and three teams have the strongest batting-unit ahead of IPL 2025. We will be taking a look at those three teams in this article.