Sai Sudharsan Ruled Out of Sri Lanka Tests
Indian Test batter B. Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka due to a right toe injury. The left-handed batter sustained the injury during India A’s tour of Sri Lanka and has been recovering at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bengaluru. The sports science team monitoring his condition confirmed that he is not fit enough to return to Test cricket at this stage.
Recovery Process Underway
The medical and fitness advisory for Sudharsan states that rehabilitation, strength, and conditioning work must be gradually increased under strict supervision. The advisory emphasizes a cautious approach to minimize future risks. Sudharsan had scored centuries in both India A matches in Sri Lanka before getting injured during the second game.
Sarfaraz Khan and Shaik Rasheed Emerge as Top Contenders
With Sudharsan out, Sarfaraz Khan and Shaik Rasheed have emerged as the leading candidates to replace him in the Test squad. According to a Times of India report, Sarfaraz has been at the BCCI Center of Excellence for over a week undergoing fitness tests. The Mumbai batter is seen as an experienced option, though some members of the coaching staff and selection committee reportedly have reservations about his fitness levels.
Shaik Rasheed has also been asked to report to the Bengaluru center on Sunday. The young batter recently toured Sri Lanka with India A, scoring 45, 63, and 20 runs across three innings. His performances have kept him on the selectors’ radar as a promising talent.
India Battling Multiple Injury Concerns
The injury to Sudharsan adds to India’s growing list of fitness concerns ahead of the Sri Lanka series. Senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah was also ruled out earlier and has been replaced by Aaqib Nabi in the squad. In Sudharsan’s absence, Devdutt Padikkal is expected to bat at number three in the batting order after scoring a century in the ongoing practice match against Sri Lanka XI.
The first Test of the series is set to begin on August 15 in Galle. The selection committee is expected to announce Sudharsan’s replacement in the coming days, giving either Sarfaraz Khan or Shaik Rasheed a golden opportunity to prove themselves at the highest level.
