Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed India to field four spinners in the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on August 15. Picking his ideal XI for the spin-friendly tour, Ashwin named Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain and Kuldeep Yadav as the key spin options, leaving just two places for fast bowlers.

Ashwin believes the combination makes perfect sense for Sri Lankan conditions, where turn is expected to play a major role. He said Jadeja’s all-round value makes him a certain starter, while Suthar and Jain can offer variety and control from either angle of turn. With Kuldeep Yadav also in the mix, India could have enough bowling depth to attack both left-handers and right-handers effectively.

“Jadeja will definitely play. Manav Suthar took seven wickets in the last game, so he should play too. Kuldeep Yadav should also be in the XI. That gives India three spinners. I think Saransh Jain can come in at No. 7, which means you can still have a batting core of Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Devdutt Padikkal or Sai Sudharsan, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. That leaves only two fast-bowler spots,” Ravichandran Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ: Subhadeep Ghosh Replaces T Dilip As India’s New Fielding Coach

For the pace attack, Ashwin suggested that Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar are the best options, while Jasprit Bumrah should be protected and managed carefully on a tour that is expected to heavily favour spin.

Ashwin also stressed that Sai Sudharsan could be one of India’s biggest assets if he is declared fit in time. The young left-hander recently scored a half-century against Afghanistan and has been in strong touch, but he still requires final fitness clearance. If he misses out, Devdutt Padikkal is the most likely replacement.

WATCH – Virat Kohli Fan Travels 4,000 km By Bicycle To Reach His Gurugram Home

Ravichadran Ashwin described Sudharsan’s absence as potentially the biggest loss for India. He pointed out that the batter had recently scored two centuries for India A at Galle, where conditions closely resemble what the senior team is likely to face in Sri Lanka. According to Ashwin, Sudharsan’s ability against spin and his growing confidence in subcontinental conditions could make him a valuable asset in the Test side.

While Padikkal remains a dependable backup thanks to his domestic record, Ashwin made it clear that he would prefer Sudharsan to carry his form into Test cricket and make the most of this opportunity.