New Delhi: India have suffered a major setback ahead of the upcoming two match Test series against Sri Lanka, with star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah ruled out after failing to recover fully from a left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the men’s selection committee has decided not to rush Bumrah’s return, with the medical team continuing to monitor his recovery. As a result, the premier pacer will miss both Tests in Sri Lanka.
Replacing Bumrah in the squad is Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi, who has received his maiden call up to the Indian Test team. The uncapped pacer earned his opportunity after consistently impressive performances in domestic cricket over the past two seasons.
The 29 year old has emerged as one of the leading pace bowlers in the Ranji Trophy, claiming 104 wickets across the last two editions of the tournament. His standout campaign came during the 2025-26 season, when he picked up 60 wickets and played a pivotal role in guiding Jammu and Kashmir to their maiden Ranji Trophy title.
Nabi further strengthened his credentials during India A’s recent tour of Sri Lanka, where he claimed six wickets in two first class matches and adapted well to local conditions. His ability to make an impact with the new ball and deliver breakthroughs at crucial stages impressed the national selectors.
Bumrah’s absence leaves a significant gap in India’s pace attack, with Mohammed Siraj expected to lead the fast bowling unit during the series. However, given Sri Lanka’s traditionally spin friendly conditions, India’s spin attack is likely to play a decisive role in both matches.
The Test series begins in Galle on August 15, with the second and final match scheduled to be played in Colombo from August 23. The contest carries added importance as both matches form part of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. India currently sit fifth in the standings, while Sri Lanka occupy sixth place, making the series crucial for both teams’ hopes of improving their positions.
India’s updated Test squad: Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain and Auqib Nabi.