IND vs SL 2026: Sai Sudharsan Ruled Out of Sri Lanka Test Series, Devdutt Padikkal Set to Replace Him
Sai Sudharsan is ruled out of India’s Sri Lanka Tests due to a toe injury, with Devdutt Padikkal likely to replace him.
Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of India’s upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka as he continues to recover from a toe injury.
Sudharsan missed India’s warm-up match and has not recovered enough to return to Test cricket. The medical team wants to give the batter more time to heal before clearing him to play.
His rehab and cricket workload will be increased gradually as India remain cautious about his return. A premature comeback could increase the risk of the toe injury returning.
Sudharsan’s absence adds to India’s injury concerns ahead of the Sri Lanka series. Jasprit Bumrah is already unavailable, while Washington Sundar is also injured.
Shubman Gill also missed the warm-up match, leaving India with some concerns over their batting options before the first Test.
Padikkal Stakes Claim at No. 3
Devdutt Padikkal is now expected to replace Sudharsan at No. 3. The Karnataka batter strengthened his case with an unbeaten 142 in India’s warm-up match.
Padikkal’s knock came at the right time as India look for a reliable option in the middle order. His form gives the team a strong candidate to fill the vacant spot.
India will hope Padikkal can carry that confidence into the Test series, while the team’s medical staff continue to manage the fitness of several key players.
