Why is Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the SL vs IND Test series uncertain? Know here
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Jasprit Bumrah has been named in Indian squad for Sri Lanka Test series but his availability is uncertain.
India have announced their squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, with Shubman Gill continuing as Captain and KL Rahul named vice-captain. The series is very important for the India team as it is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 Cycle.
Before the test series begins, India will also play a four-day practice match in Colombo from August 07, 2026. The warm-up game is expected to help the Indian players adjust to the Sri Lankan conditions; however, the conditions will be quite similar to those at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
The core of the Indian Test side has largely been retained; Ravindra Jadeja has returned to the squad after recovering from injury. The uncapped spinner Saransh Jain has received his maiden Test call-up after Washington Sundar was ruled out of the opening Test due to a hamstring injury.
However, apart from all these additions, Jasprit Bumrah is also part of the Test squad, but his place in the playing XI is still not confirmed because he is yet to receive full fitness clearance.
Here’s why Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the SL vs IND Test series uncertain
Jasprit Bumrah suffered an injury to his left knee while fielding during the second ODI against England in Cardiff. The injury later resulted in reactive swelling, forcing him to miss the ENG vs IND 3rd ODI at Lord’s.
While the selectors have named Jasprit Bumrah in India’s squad for the Sri Lanka tour, the BCCI has made it clear that his participation will depend on clearance from the Centre of Excellence (CoE).
Bumrah is expected to undergo another fitness assessment after completing his recovery period. Only after passing those medical tests will the team management decide whether he is ready for Test cricket.
Even if Bumrah is unavailable for the first Test, India still have several quality pace options in the squad. Mohammad Siraj is expected to lead the fast-bowling attack, while Kuldeep Yadav and Manav Suthar also strengthen India’s spin department, which is expected to play a major role on Sri Lankan pitches.
India’s Squad for Sri Lanka Tests:
Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sai Sudharsan*, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Jasprit Bumrah*, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain. (*Subject to fitness clearance)
Why is Jasprit Bumrah’s availability uncertain for the Sri Lanka Test series?
Bumrah is recovering from a left knee injury suffered during the ODI series against England. He will only play after receiving fitness clearance.
When does the SL vs IND Test series begin?
The first Test between Sri Lanka and India will begin on August 15, 2026 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium.
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Amit Patel is a passionate sports enthusiast and a devoted Virat Kohli admirer who proudly supports Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Having been involved in sports from a young age, he has played chess at the district level and represented his college in various competitions. Amit closely follows Indian cricket, with a special interest in tracking young talents and rising stars making their mark at the highest level. Alongside his love for the game, he is an experienced sports content writer who enjoys crafting stories that connect with fans.