IND vs SA 2025: 3 players who deserved to be part of the Indian Test squad against South Africa | CricTracker

India will take on South Africa in a two-match Test series starting on November 14 and the selection committee’s announcement of the squad has once again sparked discussions. The Ajit Agarkar-led selectors’ panel has chosen 15 members in the Shubman Gill-led squad for the few Tests. While some key names have retained their places, there are a few surprising omissions from the roster.

Several consistent domestic performers have been overlooked despite their strong recent form. Here are three players who, based on merit and recent performances, arguably deserved a place in the Indian squad for the South Africa Tests.

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Here are 3 players who deserved to be part of the Indian Test squad against South Africa

Karun Nair

Average hitter Karun Nair remains one of the most surprising omissions from the Test squad. Although he struggled on the tour of England, where he managed just one fifty and failed to convert his starts, his form in domestic cricket has been exceptional since then.

In the 2024-2025 Ranji Trophy, Nair produced many standout performances that earned him a place in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Returning to represent Karnataka in the ongoing Ranji season, he scored 73 against Saurashtra, followed by an unbeaten 174* against Goa and a stunning 233 against Kerala. Such consistent form in red ball cricket is a strong argument for reconsideration.