BCCI on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for India’s upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with Shubman Gill continuing as captain and KL Rahul named vice-captain.
The squad features a mix of experienced campaigners and fresh faces, with Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Saransh Jain receiving his first-ever senior India call-up after years of consistent performances in domestic cricket. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan have been included, but their participation will depend on fitness clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel have been picked as the two wicketkeeping options, while Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav will spearhead India’s spin attack. Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar complete the pace unit alongside Bumrah, subject to his availability.
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Saransh Jain rewarded after impressive domestic run
The biggest talking point from the squad announcement is the inclusion of 33-year-old Saransh Jain, who has finally earned a place in the national Test side after spending more than a decade in the domestic circuit.
The right-arm off-spinner and left-handed batter strengthened his case during the recent India A tour of Sri Lanka. In the second unofficial Test, Jain delivered an all-round performance by claiming four wickets in Sri Lanka A’s first innings and adding two more in the second. He also remained unbeaten on 70 as India A secured a 10-wicket victory to seal the two-match series 1-0.
Having already played in Sri Lankan conditions, Jain could offer India another reliable spin option during the tour. His ability to contribute with the bat also provides added depth in the lower order.
Washington Sundar unavailable for first Test
India will be without Washington Sundar for the opening Test as he was unavailable for selection. His absence has opened the door for Jain, who joins Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and Manav Suthar in a spin-heavy squad expected to suit Sri Lankan conditions.
The team is scheduled to play a four-day practice match in Colombo from August 7 before the Test series begins.
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India squad for Sri Lanka Tests
Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal and Saransh Jain.
Sai Sudharsan and Jasprit Bumrah’s availability is subject to fitness clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
FAQs:
Why is Saransh Jain in India’s Test squad for Sri Lanka?
Saransh Jain earned his maiden India call-up after impressive domestic performances and a strong all-round display for India A in Sri Lanka.
Is Jasprit Bumrah playing in the Sri Lanka Test series?
Jasprit Bumrah has been named in India’s squad, but his availability depends on fitness clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
