India Delay Sri Lanka Test Squad Announcement as Selectors Await Fitness Updates
India are delaying the Sri Lanka Test squad announcement as selectors await fitness reports on Bumrah, Sundar and other injured players.
India’s selectors are waiting for fresh fitness reports before naming the squad for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. A few injury concerns have delayed the announcement, with the selection meeting now likely to be held online earlier than originally planned.
Washington Sundar remains a major doubt after suffering a hamstring injury. His fitness is especially important because Sri Lanka’s spin-friendly pitches could make his all-round skills a valuable asset during the series.
Fast bowler Harshit Rana is almost certain to miss the tour because of a hamstring injury. Nitish Kumar Reddy is also expected to be unavailable for the Test series. The young all-rounder is currently being considered only for white-ball cricket as he continues his recovery.
There is better news for India on Jasprit Bumrah. Despite picking up a recent knee injury, the pace spearhead is expected to be included in the Test squad if he is cleared by the medical team before the final squad is announced.
“Jasprit Bumrah had an impact injury on his left knee while fielding in the second ODI in Cardiff. He was not available for selection for the third ODI due to reactive swelling in his left knee,” the BCCI had said about the spearhead.
Experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is also expected to return to the Test squad, adding quality with both bat and ball. His experience will be important as India look to perform well in conditions that are likely to help spin bowlers.
Apart from the injured players, most members of India’s squad from the recent one-off Test against Afghanistan are expected to retain their places. The selectors are expected to make only a few changes once the final medical reports are received.
The Sri Lanka series is an important part of the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, making fitness a key factor in the selection process. With crucial WTC points on the line, India will hope to travel with their strongest available squad.
