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NEW DELHI: The cricketing spotlight returns to the toughest and longest format as India host defending World Test Champions South Africa in the opening Test at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Both teams are coming off successful previous series and will be brimming with confidence as they begin what promises to be a thrilling contest in this World Test Championship cycle.

This tour marks a full-fledged bilateral series featuring two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, with the red-ball leg setting the tone for the battles to follow. The first Test begins tomorrow, with both sides eager to start on a strong note.

Key Players to Watch (India)

India’s hopes will rest on the form of young guns Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who have been in sublime touch in recent months. Rishabh Pant, returning to Test cricket after his remarkable recovery, will be the emotional heartbeat of the team and a key figure behind the stumps. In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav will lead the attack, expected to exploit any early movement and later assist from the surface.

India Predicted Playing XI

Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (VC/WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Dhruv Jurel

Key Players to Watch (South Africa)

For South Africa, skipper Temba Bavuma will aim to anchor the innings, while Aiden Markram and Wiaan Mulder will play crucial roles in balancing the side. Keshav Maharaj, their experienced left-arm spinner, could be decisive on a surface known to aid turn as the match progresses. South Africa’s batting depth, along with their young pace options, will be tested against India’s potent home attack.

South Africa Predicted Playing XI

Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton (WK), Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Corbin Bosch, Senuran Muthusamy

Match Details: India vs South Africa, 1st Test

Date: November 14-18, 2025

Time: 9:30 AM / 4:00 AM GMT / 9:30 AM LOCAL

Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

India vs South Africa Head-to-Head

Total Matches Played: 42, India Won: 15, South Africa Won: 17, Drawn: 10

Pitch Report

The Eden Gardens pitch is expected to offer early assistance to fast bowlers with its traditional bounce and seam movement. As the match progresses, the surface should slow down and bring spinners into play, making balance and patience key for both batting units. A first-innings total around 350-400 could prove competitive.

Weather Forecast

Kolkata is likely to witness warm and humid conditions over the five days of the Test. Temperatures are expected to hover between 25°C and 32°C, with only a slight chance of rain on the opening day. Players can expect plenty of swing early on with the morning moisture, before the pitch eases out under the sun.

India vs South Africa 1st Test: Live Streaming Details

Fans can follow the live action between India and South Africa on the Star Sports Network, with streaming available on the JioHotstar App.