India’s selection committee is expected to name its squad for the Sri Lanka Tests within days, with Ravindra Jadeja likely to return while the fitness of several key players remains unresolved. Cricbuzz reported that the panel could meet within the next 10 to 36 hours, and that the status of Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Akash Deep and Anshul Kamboj would dominate discussion. The series forms part of India’s ongoing World Test Championship campaign.
Sundar still recovering
The biggest doubt is Washington Sundar, who is working his way back from a hamstring injury. The spin-bowling all-rounder has become a regular in the Test side under head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill, and would be a useful option on the spin-friendly surfaces expected in Sri Lanka.
There is hope he could be available from the second Test, which starts on August 23, but that depends on medical clearance. Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy, both still recovering, are reportedly unlikely to play in the series.
Bumrah expected to get the green light
Jasprit Bumrah is due at the Centre of Excellence before the squad is announced. He has played little since the IPL and missed the third ODI against England after hurting his left knee while fielding in the second ODI in Cardiff. The BCCI said at the time that he suffered an impact injury and could not be considered because of reactive swelling. The problem is understood to be minor, and he is expected to be cleared for the Tests.
Jadeja set to rejoin the group
Selectors are expected to keep the core of the side that played last month’s one-off Test against Afghanistan. Jadeja missed that match in New Chandigarh and is likely to come back, adding depth to the spin department.
The selection meeting had been planned for Tuesday, July 28, but reports suggest the committee may meet virtually on Monday, July 27, to finalise the squad.
