Bumrah Returns and Pant Named in India’s Test Squad for New Zealand Tour

India announces Test and ODI squads for the upcoming New Zealand tour. Jasprit Bumrah returns to the Test side while Rishabh Pant awaits fitness clearance.

Editorial Desk

October 17, 2026 2 Min Read

POLICY WIRE — New Delhi, India — India has finalized its roster for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand, headlined by the return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has also been included in the squad, though his participation remains contingent on receiving medical fitness clearance.

The Test team, led by captain Shubman Gill, maintains a familiar core. Selectors have opted to retain key players such as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Pant’s inclusion follows his recent absence from the India A matches against New Zealand due to a left side strain.

The Test series is scheduled to commence in Wellington on November 19, with the second and final match taking place in Christchurch starting November 27. The squad also features the return of seamers Anshul Kamboj and Akash Deep, alongside Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

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In addition to the Test lineup, India announced squads for a five-match ODI series, which serves as preparation for next year’s ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Shubman Gill will captain the side for the first three matches, with Shreyas Iyer taking over leadership duties for the final two games.

The ODI series begins in Auckland on November 4 and concludes in Mount Maunganui on November 15. While veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain in the ODI setup, Bumrah has been selected exclusively for the Test portion of the tour.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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