India have been dealt a blow with Jasprit Bumrah being ruled out for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka. In his absence, Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has reportedly emerged as the leading contender to replace him in the squad.
According to the Times of India, Bumrah is still experiencing discomfort in his left knee. Rather than rushing him back, the BCCI is understood to have decided that the fast bowler should complete his recovery before returning to international cricket.
Nabi is yet to make his debut for India, but his performances in domestic cricket have put him firmly in the mix for a maiden national call-up. He was the standout bowler in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, finishing the season as the competition’s highest wicket-taker. He also played an important role in Jammu and Kashmir winning their first Ranji Trophy title, a campaign that brought him into the spotlight. There is no official confirmation yet and Team India are likely to announce the replacement in the coming week.
India Look to Turn Test Fortunes Against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka will host India in the 2 match Test series which will start on August 15 (Saturday) at Galle International Stadium. After three days, both teams will face each other for the second game on August 23 at Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. India will reach Colombo, Sri Lanka, on August 4 (Tuesday). The visitors will play a four-day practice match in Colombo before heading to Galle for the first test. India have a great record in Sri Lanka. They have won the last five Tests in Sri Lanka and have not lost a series since 2008.
This series is crucial for India who have struggled in this format for about a year. There have been questions on Gautam Gambhir after the decline in performance in the white-ball format along with Tests. India have suffered a white wash at home against New Zealand and South Africa. They lost the BGT in Australia and could draw the series 2-2 in England. The upcoming Test against Sri Lanka followed by the New Zealand tour will be a challenge for the Indian team and they will be keen to put up a good performance.