The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced India’s squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, with the return of Ravindra Jadeja and a maiden call-up for Saransh Jain grabbing the spotlight.
Jadeja makes a comeback after recovering from a tennis elbow injury he sustained during the Indian Premier League 2026 in May. His return is expected to significantly strengthen India’s spin department, especially in spin-friendly subcontinental conditions.
Meanwhile, Saransh Jain replaces Washington Sundar, who has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury picked up during the ODI series in England.
Saransh Jain earns maiden India call-up
The inclusion of Saransh Jain marks a significant moment in his career. The Madhya Pradesh all-rounder has been rewarded for consistent domestic performances and a strong showing for India A against Sri Lanka A.
Jain has played 42 First-Class matches, taking 131 wickets at an average of 28.51, with an impressive economy rate of around 2.99. His best bowling figures stand at 6/103, highlighting his ability to deliver impactful spells.
With the bat, the left-handed lower-order batter has scored 1,455 runs at an average of 25.98, including eight half-centuries and a century. His all-round ability makes him a valuable replacement for Washington Sundar in the squad.
Jadeja’s return boosts India’s balance
Jadeja’s return adds experience and depth to India’s lineup. Known for his all-round contributions with both bat and ball, he is expected to play a crucial role in the series.
His presence also provides balance to the team, allowing India to field a strong spin attack alongside pace options, depending on pitch conditions in Sri Lanka.
Key squad details and fitness updates
The squad will be led by Shubman Gill, with KL Rahul named as vice-captain.
The BCCI confirmed that the availability of Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan will depend on fitness clearance from the Centre of Excellence.
India squad for Sri Lanka Tests:
- 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
(*subject to fitness clearance)
Tour schedule
India’s tour will begin with a four-day practice match in Colombo starting August 7. The two-Test series will follow:
- 1st Test: Galle (August 15–19)
- 2nd Test: Colombo (August 23–27)
What this means for India
The return of Jadeja and the inclusion of a promising all-rounder like Saransh Jain reflect India’s strategy of blending experience with fresh talent. With spin expected to play a key role in Sri Lankan conditions, the squad appears well-balanced for the challenge ahead.
All eyes will now be on how the team shapes its playing XI and how newcomers like Jain seize their opportunity on the international stage.