Big Relief for India! Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah Set to Return for Sri Lanka Tests as WTC Race Heats Up

India’s campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 has received a significant boost with encouraging fitness updates on Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, scheduled to begin on August 15.

The series is expected to play a crucial role in India’s journey towards securing a place in the World Test Championship Final, which will be played at The Oval on June 9, 2027. With challenging assignments against New Zealand and Australia still to come later in the cycle, every Test match carries immense importance.

Bumrah Gradually Returning to Full Workload

India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is currently undergoing rehabilitation and conditioning at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE). Reports suggest that the medical team is satisfied with his progress and plans to gradually increase his bowling workload over the coming days.

The star pacer has played very little red-ball cricket in recent months after dealing with a knee issue that surfaced before the final ODI against England at Lord’s. Since then, the Indian management has carefully monitored his recovery, ensuring that he returns only when fully match-ready.

According to team insiders, Bumrah is expected to begin bowling longer spells this week, helping him regain the rhythm required for Test cricket. While his selection for the Sri Lanka series remains subject to fitness clearance, initial indications are positive.

The Indian team management believes Bumrah’s availability could prove decisive, especially considering the importance of winning both Tests to remain firmly in contention for the WTC final.

Gill’s Neck Injury Showing Positive Signs

Captain Shubman Gill has also made encouraging progress after battling a recurring neck problem that affected him during the Test series against South Africa.

The issue reportedly became severe enough to force Gill out of the remainder of that series and even caused him to miss an IPL fixture. To address the persistent discomfort, the Indian skipper has consulted specialists outside the BCCI medical setup while continuing his rehabilitation.

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Sources indicate that Gill’s condition has improved considerably. However, he continues to follow a cautious recovery plan to ensure the chronic issue does not resurface during long batting sessions.

India’s coaching staff considers Gill’s presence vital, not only because of his leadership but also due to his growing influence as one of the team’s most dependable batters in the longest format.

Sri Lanka Series Could Shape India’s WTC Future

The upcoming Sri Lanka Tests represent much more than just another bilateral contest. With only three Test series remaining in this WTC cycle—against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Australia—India has very little margin for error.

Losing even a single Test could significantly increase the pressure before the demanding tours that follow. That is why the selectors and medical staff are prioritising the complete recovery of key players rather than rushing them back into action.

A fully fit Bumrah would strengthen India’s bowling attack considerably, while Gill’s return would restore stability to the batting order and leadership group.

Eyes on the Bigger Goal

The Indian team is entering one of the most decisive phases of its World Test Championship campaign. With several high-stakes matches ahead, having senior stars available could make the difference between qualifying for another WTC final or falling short.

As preparations continue, fans will be hoping that both Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah are declared fully fit before the opening Test in Galle, giving India its strongest possible squad for a must-win series.