The BCCI has announced India’s squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, with injuries forcing the selectors to make several key decisions. While Shubman Gill will continue as captain and KL Rahul has been named vice-captain, the squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents eager to establish themselves in the longest format.
India head into the series without a few important players. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy was unavailable for selection after failing to recover from the thigh injury that ruled him out of the recent UK tour. Fast bowler Harshit Rana has also been sidelined after suffering another injury just days after returning from a lengthy four-month rehabilitation.
The fitness of two key players—Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan—also remains under close observation. Although both have been included in the squad, their participation will depend on receiving clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) before the series begins.
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Bumrah recently returned to international cricket during the ODI series against England, having been rested after the IPL. The premier fast bowler skipped India’s home series against Afghanistan as well as the T20I assignments against Ireland and England to carefully manage his workload. According to reports, Bumrah is currently on a scheduled break until July 30 and will undergo fresh medical assessments at the Centre of Excellence before a final decision is taken on his availability.
Behind the stumps, Rishabh Pant continues as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper, with Dhruv Jurel retained as the backup option. India’s pace attack will once again rely on the experience of Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, while Gurnoor Brar has retained his place after impressing during his early appearances in international cricket.
🚨 News 🚨#TeamIndia‘s squad for the 2⃣-match Test Series against Sri Lanka announced
Note: Washington Sundar was not available for selection for the first Test.
More Details ▶️ https://t.co/Vk0Xd8Axmq #SLvIND pic.twitter.com/NuCcKBohMj
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 28, 2026
The biggest talking point, however, is the maiden Test call-up for Saransh Jain. The 33-year-old Madhya Pradesh all-rounder has finally been rewarded for years of consistent performances in domestic cricket. After more than a decade of hard work on the domestic circuit, Jain has earned a long-awaited opportunity to represent India at the highest level.
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His selection also provides valuable cover for Washington Sundar, whose availability remains uncertain as he recovers from a hamstring injury. With Sri Lankan conditions expected to favour spin, the selectors have opted for a dependable all-rounder capable of contributing with both bat and ball. Jain’s experience and versatility offer India greater balance as they look to revive their World Test Championship campaign with a strong showing in Sri Lanka.
India’s squad: Shubman Gill (c), KL Rahul (vc), 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, Saransh Jain.
