The BCCI has announced India’s 15 member squad for the upcoming two Test series against Sri Lanka, with Shubman Gill continuing as captain.
While the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja has strengthened the squad, the biggest talking point is the maiden India call up for 33 year old spinner Saransh Jain.
Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the first Test due to injury, opening the door for Saransh.
The Madhya Pradesh spinner earned his chance after impressive performances in domestic cricket and during the recent India A tour of Sri Lanka, where he contributed with both bat and ball.
Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan have also returned to the squad, but both players will feature only after receiving medical clearance from the BCCI.
Apart from Saransh’s inclusion, there are no major surprises in the squad as India continue to back a strong mix of experienced and young players.
India Squad for Sri Lanka Tests: Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain.
India vs Sri Lanka Test Series Schedule:
1st Test: August 15-19, Galle
2nd Test: August 23-27, Colombo
Saransh’s selection is the biggest talking point, but making the playing XI will not be easy.
With Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and Manav Suthar expected to lead India’s spin attack, the 33 year old may have to wait for his opportunity.
Still, after years of consistent performances in domestic cricket, has Saransh Jain finally earned the chance he has been waiting for?
