India face West Indies in the first Test of a two-match series starting October 2, 2025, in Ahmedabad. After winning the Asia Cup T20 in the UAE and drawing a thrilling Test series in England, India return home to reset under Shubman Gill’s captaincy.
A New Chapter Without Senior Stars
The 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand last year still stings. This series is also the beginning of a new phase without Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin, who are missing from the squad this time.
Match Details and Streaming
Date & Time: October 2, 2025, 9:30 AM IST
Toss: 9:00 AM IST
Venue: Ahmedabad
Live Streaming: JioHotstar app & website
TV Broadcast: Star Sports Network
India’s Predicted XI
India are expected to play Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Sai Sudharsan will be closely watched as he gets a chance to cement the No.3 slot.
Team Squads
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), N Jagadeesan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (w), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy
West Indies: John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Alick Athanaze, Brandon King, Roston Chase (c), Shai Hope (w), Justin Greaves, Khary Pierre, Johann Layne, Anderson Phillip, Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican, Jediah Blades, Kevlon Anderson, Tevin Imlach
Pitch and Weather Report
The Ahmedabad pitch has a good grass cover, which should help pacers early. Rains in the city have added moisture but extreme turn is not expected. Weather forecasts predict cloudy skies with a chance of showers, which could affect play.
India’s Fresh Era Under Gill
This series marks a big test for India’s new era. Youngsters like Sai Sudharsan and Yashasvi Jaiswal have a chance to shine, while seniors like Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will guide the team and provide balance in all conditions.
West Indies Challenge
West Indies may not look strong on paper, but players such as Roston Chase and Shai Hope are proven performers. If India take them lightly, they can cause damage. Strategy and patience will decide who adapts better.
What to Expect
The first Test in Ahmedabad promises an exciting mix of youth and experience. You can watch it live on JioHotstar or Star Sports. India will look to make the most of home advantage, start strong and build momentum for the second Test.
