New Delhi, August 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to feature in the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka after failing to receive fitness clearance due to lingering discomfort in his left knee.
The series begins on August 15 in Galle, but Bumrah’s recovery remains incomplete after sustaining an impact injury during the ODI series against England. The pacer missed the deciding ODI at Lord’s on July 19 after developing reactive swelling in his left knee while fielding during the second ODI in Cardiff.
According to sources, Bumrah has yet to resume bowling at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where the medical team has advised additional recovery time to avoid aggravating the injury. Although he was included in the Test squad led by Shubman Gill, his selection was subject to medical clearance.
With Bumrah now expected to miss the tour, the Ajit Agarkar-led senior selection committee is likely to announce a replacement shortly. Jammu & Kashmir seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi has emerged as the leading contender for the vacant spot.
Nabi impressed during the domestic season by claiming 60 wickets in Jammu & Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy-winning campaign. He also performed well during the India A tour of Sri Lanka in June-July, taking six wickets in two matches, and trained with the senior national squad ahead of the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh earlier this year.
In Bumrah’s likely absence, India’s pace attack is expected to be led by Mohammed Siraj, alongside Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar.
The Indian Test squad is scheduled to arrive in Sri Lanka on August 4 before playing a three-day practice match at the NCC in Colombo from August 7 to 9. The opening Test will be played at the Galle International Stadium from August 15, while the second Test is scheduled at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27.
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