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AB de Villiers Left ‘Surprised’ by Rishabh Pant’s India Test Selection, Says He ‘Looked Low on Confidence’ Before Sri Lanka Series
The former South Africa captain backs the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja but admits Rishabh Pant’s inclusion raised questions ahead of India’s crucial World Test Championship clash against Sri Lanka.
As India gears up for a crucial two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has shared his thoughts on the recently announced squad, expressing surprise over one particular selection.
While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named a strong 15-member squad featuring experienced stars like Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, and Rishabh Pant, it was Pant’s inclusion that caught de Villiers’ attention.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the legendary batter admitted that Pant did not look at his best during the recent Indian Premier League (IPL) season and believes the wicketkeeper-batter still has something to prove.”Rishabh Pant being in the squad is a bit of a surprise. It will be interesting to see how his fitness is and whether his hunger to perform is back. During the IPL, he appeared low on confidence and energy. But playing for India often brings out the best in players, and I hope we see that version of him again,” de Villiers said.
Despite his concerns, the former Proteas skipper believes wearing the Indian jersey could inspire Pant to rediscover his aggressive and fearless approach in the longest format.
Bumrah and Jadeja Receive Strong Backing
While Pant’s selection raised eyebrows, de Villiers was full of praise for the return of two of India’s most experienced match-winners.
He welcomed the comeback of Jasprit Bumrah, whose availability remains subject to fitness clearance, saying the fast bowler instantly transforms India’s bowling attack.
According to de Villiers, a fully fit Bumrah creates pressure on opposition batters from the very first spell and remains one of the world’s premier fast bowlers.
He also applauded the presence of Ravindra Jadeja, describing the veteran all-rounder as a player whose experience and versatility continue to be invaluable in Test cricket.
New Spin Option Adds Variety
De Villiers also spoke about uncapped all-rounder Saransh Jain, who earned a place in India’s squad.
He compared Jain’s style to Washington Sundar, noting that the youngster could provide useful bowling options once the ball gets older. With established spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Jadeja already in the side, Jain’s inclusion gives captain Shubman Gill greater tactical flexibility, especially against left-handed batters.
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Important WTC Points at Stake
The upcoming Tests in Galle and Colombo carry significant importance as part of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
India currently occupies fifth place in the WTC standings, while Sri Lanka sits just behind in sixth. With valuable championship points available, both teams will be eager to start the series strongly and improve their chances of reaching the 2027 WTC Final.
India’s Test Squad for Sri Lanka
India’s squad includes Shubman Gill (captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, and Saransh Jain.
With experienced stars returning, fresh faces getting opportunities, and the World Test Championship race heating up, India’s tour of Sri Lanka promises to be one of the most closely watched Test contests of the season.
