Concerns are reportedly growing within the Indian team management over the handling of player fitness, with fears that several cricketers are being rushed back from injuries before completing their full rehabilitation. According to The Indian Express, the constant transition between T20 and Test cricket is also being viewed as a major factor behind the increasing number of injuries affecting India’s leading players.
With India set to begin a crucial two-Test series against Sri Lanka, which forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, the fitness of key players has become a major talking point. Reports suggest that seven to eight Indian players are currently dealing with injuries, raising fresh questions about workload management and return-to-play protocols.
Jasprit Bumrah’s recent withdrawal from the Sri Lanka Test squad has further intensified the debate. The star pacer was initially named in the squad with a fitness disclaimer but was eventually ruled out due to a knee injury. Washington Sundar has also struggled with recurring fitness concerns, while several players have reportedly been selected before receiving complete medical clearance.
WATCH – Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel Turn Photographers As India Arrive in Colombo
A source quoted by The Indian Express claimed that once a player is named in the squad, the focus often shifts to passing a basic fitness test rather than ensuring complete recovery. The report stressed that return-to-play (RTP) protocols should never be compromised, especially with a packed international calendar.
Team India fly for the Sri Lanka 🇮🇳
After a long time, it’s great to see Ravindra Jadeja back in the Team India jersey. All eyes will be on Gautam Gambhir as he faces one of his toughest assignments, especially with Jasprit Bumrah unavailable.
This series is crucial for India’s… pic.twitter.com/S0Ps7WMo3V
— Jara (@JARA_Memer) August 4, 2026
Â
Former India strength and conditioning coach Ramji Srinivasan echoed similar concerns, highlighting the physical demands of switching between formats in a short span. He explained that players require format-specific preparation, as the workload for T20 cricket differs significantly from that of ODI and Test cricket.
ALSO READ: Australia To Skip Practice Matches Again Ahead Of Crucial India Tour
Srinivasan added that India’s schedule is known well in advance, making proper transition planning essential. With injuries continuing to disrupt the national team’s plans, workload management and rehabilitation are expected to be key topics when the BCCI reviews the team’s recent performances and fitness concerns.
