• Source:JND

Shubman Gill-led India have received a major boost ahead of the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with Jasprit Bumrah moving closer to making his return. The pace spearhead has been included in the squad, although his participation will depend on clearing a fitness test before the opening match.

Notably, Bumrah suffered an impact injury on his left knee while fielding during the second ODI against England, which forced him to miss the series decider at iconic Lord's Stadium in London.

The two-match India vs Sri Lanka Test series begins in Galle from August 15 to 19, while the second Test will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27.

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According to a report in The Times of India, Bumrah is recovering well from the impact injury he suffered during the ODI series against England. He is expected to resume bowling this week, with the team management planning to increase his workload gradually instead of rushing him back.

Will Bumrah feature in Sri Lanka series opener?

The medical staff at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence will closely monitor his progress as he builds up to bowling longer spells, which is essential for Test cricket.

“Bumrah will start bowling this week and his workload will be gradually increased. He needs to get used to bowling longer spells again. The medical team at the CoE will be closely monitoring it,” the report quoted.

If everything goes according to plan, Bumrah is likely to be available for the first Test. His return would be a huge relief for India, especially with the team looking to stay on course in the World Test Championship. With only two Tests in the series, every match carries significant importance, and the management wants its pace spearhead fully fit before taking the field.

Focus on Shubman Gill's neck problem

At the same time, India are also keeping a close watch on captain Shubman Gill’s fitness. The right-handed batter has been dealing with a recurring neck problem that has troubled him over the past year. The injury forced him to miss part of India’s tour of South Africa and also ruled him out of an IPL match earlier this year.

Gill is now consulting medical experts to find a long-term solution, as the discomfort tends to return whenever he spends long hours batting. India are hopeful that the issue can be managed properly before the Sri Lanka tour, as Gill’s presence at the top of the order and his leadership will be crucial in the upcoming Test series.

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