Will Rishabh Pant make a comeback in the upcoming series against South Africa? Dhruv Jurel to play in Kolkata Test; Coach reveals insights

Authored by: Saloni Patil | Maharashtra Times.com • Nov 13, 2025, 11:39 am
IND vs SA 1st Test: The series between India and South Africa kicks off with the first Test where Dhruv Jurel has been included, sparking uncertainties about Rishabh Pant’s role in the match. The matches against South Africa will include Tests, ODIs, and T20s. The first Test will be played at Eden Gardens in Kolkata from November 14 to 18. Dhruv Jurel, in good form, will feature in the Kolkata Test. This has raised questions about Rishabh Pant’s comeback in the series.
Pant suffered an injury during the England series, which led him to undergo rehabilitation, making him unavailable for the West Indies series. Despite playing in international leagues, Pant faced setbacks and had to take a break from the field. This has left fans curious about Pant’s participation in the South Africa series. With Dhruv Jurel also joining the squad, the discussions have intensified. India’s assistant coach, Ryan Ten Doeschate, confirmed on Wednesday, ‘Wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel will play in the first Test against South Africa, while all-rounder Nitesh Reddy has a chance in the Test. I think we have a good idea of the team. Dhruv’s performance in the past six months and the two centuries he scored in Bangalore in the last eight weeks are promising. The key is to develop a strategy to win the matches.’
‘We haven’t changed our opinion about Nitesh. He didn’t get many opportunities in Australia, but I believe this series is a great chance for him to shine,’ stated India’s assistant coach, Ryan Ten Doeschate. Reddy suffered an injury during the Australian tour, keeping him away from the field since then. Pant has matured and accepted more responsibilities, hence Jurel’s inclusion as a wicketkeeper-batsman.
About the author
Saloni Patil is an active journalist and digital media professional for the past 3 years. She has been working at Maharashtra Times for the last year, focusing on sports and business sectors. She interned at ABP Majha in the past. She has experience working as a coordinator, social media and video editor at Meri Saheli and as a reporter at News 18 Lokmat. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication and Journalism, with a background in BMM from college. She covers IPL, Olympics, Asian competitions, global events, and other sports news.