The Board of Control for Cricket in India has named the India A squads for the upcoming home series against Australia A, appointing Ruturaj Gaikwad as one-day captain.
Devdutt Padikkal will lead the multi-day side for the two-match red-ball leg beginning on September 22 in Puducherry, with Sai Sudharsan acting as his deputy. The dual-captaincy structure establishes a clear white-ball succession roadmap, testing Gaikwad’s leadership credentials before the senior side’s upcoming international tours.
Hardik Pandya Nears Return
Senior all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been included in the one-day squad following extensive rehabilitation for a quadriceps injury. The 32-year-old has spent several months at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and must pass a fitness clearance before joining the team. Fast bowler Vijaykumar Vyshak faces a similar fitness requirement ahead of the opening multi-day fixture on September 22.
Pathway Development Takes Priority
The selection committee has balanced youth and experience across both formats. Padikkal will step down to vice-captain for the three 50-over matches, supporting Gaikwad from October 6. The board remains focused on squad cohesion, a strategy mirrored by their decision to accept standard hotel accommodations for the upcoming Asian Games title defence.
Other international boards are currently pursuing commercial restructuring, such as the move to approve private equity sale within the Big Bash League. Meanwhile, the Indian setup is utilising these Puducherry fixtures to evaluate their reserve strength.
