Overview
- Cricket Association of Bengal president Sourav Ganguly said India have not asked for a rank turner, with Eden Gardens prepared as a sporting wicket expected to offer turn from Day 3.
- South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has joined the squad in Kolkata, completing a full-strength Proteas group ahead of the first Test starting November 14.
- Rishabh Pant returns to India’s squad, with one XI spot still contested as Dhruv Jurel’s red‑ball form challenges all‑round options Axar Patel and Nitish Kumar Reddy.
- Curator guidance and recent local conditions point to early seam assistance, consistent bounce and later spin, shaping selection and strategy for both sides.
- Organisers confirmed the Ashes will open at Perth’s Optus Stadium on November 21, with Ian Botham questioning England’s limited red‑ball warm‑up as Chris Woakes notes a small psychological boost from avoiding a Gabba opener.