Gill’s India Arrive in Sri Lanka Without Key Batter

Shubman Gill’s India squad has touched down in Sri Lanka, arriving a full 11 days ahead of the opening Test of the two-match series. The first Test gets underway on August 15, followed by the second from August 23 to 27. Before the series begins, the touring side will play a three-day warm-up fixture against a Sri Lankan XI. With India having struggled against spin in recent years — managing series wins only against Bangladesh and West Indies at home over the past two seasons — the spin-friendly conditions expected in Sri Lanka present a stiff early challenge. To prepare, the team has brought along four net bowlers, all spinners.

Sudharsan’s Fitness in Doubt

One notable absence from the squad’s arrival is number three batter Sai Sudharsan, who is yet to land in the island nation. Sudharsan is still recovering from a toe injury, and whether he takes his place in the XI will depend on how he pulls up in the coming days. Should he be ruled unfit, Devdutt Padikkal is expected to step in as his replacement in the batting order.

Bumrah Ruled Out of the Series

Adding to India’s selection concerns is the continued absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. The paceman picked up a knee injury during the recent ODI series against England and will not be available for the Sri Lanka tour. Bumrah is instead being lined up for a return at the 2026 Asian Games, meaning India’s bowling attack will need to manage without their premier fast bowler for the entirety of this series.