India’s preparations for the upcoming Test tour of Sri Lanka have suffered a significant setback, with pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah unlikely to feature in the two-match series due to an unresolved left knee injury. Although Bumrah was initially named in the squad subject to medical clearance, the fast bowler has yet to resume bowling at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, making his participation increasingly unlikely.
The 31-year-old sustained an impact injury during the ODI series against England after developing reactive swelling in his left knee while fielding in the second ODI at Cardiff. The injury forced him to miss the series-deciding third ODI at Lord’s, and his rehabilitation has since progressed at a measured pace under the supervision of the BCCI medical team.
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While earlier reports had suggested Bumrah was close to receiving fitness clearance for the Sri Lanka tour, sources now indicate that he has not even begun bowling workloads. The medical staff are believed to be taking a long-term approach, preferring not to risk aggravating the injury ahead of a busy international calendar.
With Bumrah unlikely to recover in time, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to announce a replacement before the Indian squad departs for Sri Lanka on August 4.Jammu & Kashmir seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi has emerged as the leading candidate to fill the vacancy. Nabi enjoyed an outstanding domestic campaign, playing a pivotal role in Jammu & Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy-winning season by claiming 60 wickets. His performances earned him a place on the India A tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year, where he impressed by taking six wickets in two matches.The youngster has also spent time training with the senior Indian squad ahead of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, giving selectors an opportunity to closely assess his progress. A call-up would mark Nabi’s maiden inclusion in India’s Test squad.
The Indian team is scheduled to play a three-day practice match at the NCC Ground in Colombo from August 7 to 9 before opening the Test series against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium on August 15. The second and final Test will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27.
India’s decision to leave Bumrah out reflects a broader strategy of prioritising the fast bowler’s long-term fitness over short-term gains, ensuring he returns only when fully fit rather than risking a recurrence of the injury.
