India are preparing to host West Indies in the first Test of a two-match series beginning October 2, 2025. The first game, to be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, marks the start of India’s 2025 home season, carrying immense significance due to the World Test Championship points that are also on offer. This is also India's first home series since the retirement of stalwarts Rohit Sharma, R. Ashwin, and Virat Kohli. India’s Test squad, led by Shubman Gill, is full of young talent, with Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel featuring in the side. 

In the absence of Rishabh Pant, who is missing the series due to a foot injury, Narayan Jagadeesan has been brought into the side. Furthermore, Ravindra Jadeja has been named vice‑captain in Pant’s stead. Heading into the series against West Indies, India would hope to build on the momentum after a gritty performance in England earlier this year, where they managed to draw the five-match series 2-2 despite having a new-look squad.

Meanwhile, West Indies' plans have already been impacted by injury woes. Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been declared unavailable for the tour due to a lower back injury, and his place has been taken by Jediah Blades. Another Windies pace option, Shamar Joseph, is also absent because of injury. Now, West Indies, hampered by injuries, will have to punch above their weight, relying on their available players such as Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, and Shai Hope.

Head-to-head

Matches - 83

IND won - 19

Drawn - 34

WI won - 30

India likely XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

West Indies likely XI: Alick Athanaze, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Kevlon Anderson, Brandon King, Roston Chase (c), Shai Hope (wk), Justin Greaves, Jomel Warrican (vc), Jediah Blades, Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales