Ravindra Jadeja Returns for Sri Lanka Tests, Uncapped Saransh Jain Earns Maiden India Call-Up in Surprise Selection

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced India’s squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, with veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja making a welcome return and domestic performer Saransh Jain earning his maiden national call-up.

Jadeja returns to the Test setup after recovering from the tennis elbow injury that ruled him out following the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. His comeback is expected to significantly strengthen India’s spin department as the team prepares for challenging subcontinental conditions.

Jadeja back to boost India’s spin attack

The return of Ravindra Jadeja comes as a major boost for Shubman Gill’s side. One of India’s most experienced all-rounders, Jadeja’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a key asset, particularly on spin-friendly pitches in Sri Lanka.

His experience will be crucial as India look to begin the Test series on a strong note.

Saransh Jain rewarded for consistent domestic performances

The biggest talking point in the squad announcement is the inclusion of Saransh Jain, who has received his first-ever India call-up.

The spin-bowling all-rounder replaces Washington Sundar, who was unavailable for selection for the opening Test after sustaining a hamstring injury during the ODI series against England.

Representing Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket, Jain has built an impressive First-Class career. In 54 matches, the right-arm off-spinner has claimed 181 wickets at an average of 27.30, with best innings figures of 6/75.

His recent performances for India A against Sri Lanka A further strengthened his case for national selection.

Reliable contributor with the bat

Apart from his bowling, Saransh Jain has also impressed with the bat lower down the order.

The left-handed batter has scored 2,223 runs in First-Class cricket at an average of 31.75, including two centuries and 14 half-centuries. His all-round ability gives India an option similar to Washington Sundar, offering valuable balance to the squad.

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Fitness updates for Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan

In its official statement, the BCCI confirmed that the availability of Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan will depend on clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) before the series begins.

The board also confirmed that Washington Sundar was unavailable for selection for the first Test due to injury.

India’s squad for Sri Lanka Tests

India have named a balanced 15-member squad for the series:

• Shubman Gill (Captain)
• KL Rahul (Vice-Captain)
• Yashasvi Jaiswal
• Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper)
• Sai Sudharsan* (subject to fitness)
• Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)
• Ravindra Jadeja
• Kuldeep Yadav
• Manav Suthar
• Jasprit Bumrah* (subject to fitness)
• Mohammed Siraj
• Prasidh Krishna
• Gurnoor Brar
• Devdutt Padikkal
• Saransh Jain

Tour begins with practice match

India’s tour will begin with a four-day practice match in Colombo from August 7, giving the players valuable preparation ahead of the Test series.

The first Test will be played in Galle from August 15 to 19, while the second and final Test is scheduled in Colombo from August 23 to 27.

With Jadeja’s experience returning to the side and a promising newcomer in Saransh Jain getting his opportunity, India will be aiming to start the Sri Lanka tour on a positive note.