Colombo, August 8, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India have suffered a setback ahead of their two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with left-handed batter B. Sai Sudharsan ruled out of the opening Test in Galle due to a right big toe injury. His availability for the second and final Test in Colombo is also uncertain.
The first Test is scheduled to begin on August 15, while the second match will be played from August 23 to 27.
Sudharsan has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after suffering a stress reaction in his right foot. Although he had resumed batting, fielding and conditioning work, pain in the metatarsal area of his right big toe following skill sessions has raised concerns within the medical team.
“Sai has been definitely ruled out of the first Test as he needs more time to fully recover from the pain in his right big toe. The medical team is monitoring his progress closely, and a decision on his inclusion for the second Test will be taken later, though he’s more of a touch-and-go for it,” a source familiar with the matter told IANS on Saturday.
Sudharsan has scored 383 runs at an average of 31.91 in seven Tests.
If he misses the series opener, Devdutt Padikkal could be considered as his replacement. Padikkal strengthened his case by scoring a century in the ongoing warm-up game against Sri Lanka Cricket XI at the NCC Ground in Colombo. He reached the landmark in 121 balls with 14 fours before retiring out.
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel could also consider sending Ruturaj Gaikwad to Sri Lanka, although a final decision on Sudharsan’s replacement has not yet been announced.
Gaikwad was part of India A’s tour of Sri Lanka in June-July, where he served as vice-captain and helped the side win a 50-over tri-series. He subsequently scored 22, 1 and 13 not out in the red-ball matches in Galle.
India are already without premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out of the two-Test series because of a left knee injury. Auqib Nabi has been named as his replacement.
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