The BCCI has announced India's A squads for the upcoming home series against Australia A. Puducherry will host the matches, which include two multi-day games and three one-day contests.
Devdutt Padikkal has been named captain of the multi-day side. Ruturaj Gaikwad will lead the one-day team. Sai Sudharsan takes the vice-captaincy role in the multi-day squad, while Padikkal will serve as vice-captain in the one-day setup.
India A Multi-Day Squad Leadership Announced
The multi-day matches are scheduled to take place in Puducherry. The first match runs from September 22 to 25, and the second from September 29 to October 2. Padikkal's appointment as captain puts a left-handed batter in charge of the longer format side.
Sudharsan's vice-captaincy in the multi-day squad signals the team management's focus on young batting talent. Both players have been consistent performers in domestic cricket and will now get a chance to lead against a strong Australia A side.
Gaikwad To Lead India A One-Day Team
Ruturaj Gaikwad, known for his aggressive stroke play at the top of the order, will captain the one-day side. Padikkal will be his deputy in the shorter format. The three one-day games are part of the same home series against Australia A.
The BCCI's decision to split leadership between two formats gives both players valuable captaincy experience. Gaikwad has led teams in domestic competitions before, while Padikkal's multi-day captaincy role adds a new responsibility to his profile.
What This Means For India A Selection
These squads give the selectors a chance to evaluate players in competitive conditions against an international opponent. The multi-day matches, in particular, will test the temperament of batters and bowlers who are in the mix for higher honors.
Hosting the series in Puducherry also spreads cricket to newer venues. For the players involved, strong performances here could push them closer to national team selection.
Our Take: Leadership Roles Signal Clear Intent
In our view, the BCCI has made smart choices by handing captaincy to Padikkal and Gaikwad. Both players have been around the fringes of the senior team, and giving them leadership responsibility in an A series is a clear message — the board is watching how they handle pressure.
The split captaincy also makes sense. Padikkal gets the longer format, where his solid technique fits well. Gaikwad, with his limited-overs experience, is the natural pick for the one-day side. This series against Australia A will be a real test of their leadership and performance.
For fans, these matches are worth following closely. The next wave of Indian cricket talent will be on display, and the way these captains handle their roles could shape future selection calls.
