Bumrah and Akash return to Indian Test squad for New Zealand tour

Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep have returned to India's 16-member Test squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. Akash returns following an eight-month injury layoff, having proven his fitness in domestic cricket. Shubman Gill will captain the Test side with K.L. Rahul serving as vice-captain, while Rishabh Pant's selection remains subject to fitness. The squad announcements on October 16, 2026, highlight India's focus on securing crucial World Test Championship points.

India also named squads for the five-match ODI series preceding the Tests. Gill, Rahul, Prasidh Krishna, and Anshul Kamboj will participate in the first three ODIs before being replaced for the final two games to prepare for the Test matches. Shreyas Iyer will take over captaincy duties for those final two ODIs, with Ishan Kishan acting as his deputy.