Team India is preparing for their practice match against the Sri Lanka 'B' team, with the first training session already underway. The Indian coach has started the training with a strong message ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series.
India Eye Crucial Start to WTC Campaign Against Sri Lanka
India's World Test Championship (WTC) campaign resumes as they face Sri Lanka away from home. Their start in the WTC has been underwhelming, having suffered home defeats against South Africa. However, they managed to level the series against England while playing away. This series is crucial, as it will significantly influence their path for the remainder of the campaign with Shubman Gill and his teammates.
Currently, India is placed fifth in the World Test Championship standings with a points percentage of 48.15, trailing behind Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.
The squad selected for the Sri Lanka Test series features a mix of established players and promising newcomers. With Jasprit Bumrah ruled out due to injury, pacer Auqib Nabi has received his first Test call-up after a remarkable Ranji Trophy season, where he took 60 wickets and played a key role in Jammu & Kashmir's historic title triumph.
Additionally, selectors have recognized 33-year-old all-rounder Saransh Jain with his first Test call-up, following several consistent seasons for Madhya Pradesh, where he has impressed with both bat and ball in domestic cricket.
Gambhir Congratulates Auqib Nabi and Saransh Jain
Welcoming the newcomers to the squad, Gambhir said,
"We've got a couple of new guys in. To start with, Saransh, congratulations. You've worked extremely hard to be here. Make sure that you make your family and your country proud whenever you get that opportunity."
He then congratulated Auqib Nabi, adding,
"Secondly, I want to congratulate Auqib. You had a phenomenal last season and helped J&K win the Ranji Trophy, which is a great achievement. Congratulations once again."
India will be looking to begin the three-match Test series on a positive note as they continue their push in the World Test Championship cycle. The opening Test between India and Sri Lanka gets underway on August 15, with Gambhir's men aiming to make a strong statement from the very first ball of the series.
