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IND vs SL 1st Test: Only a few days remain before the Test series between India and Sri Lanka begins (India tour of Sri Lanka 2026). Team India has already played and won its practice match. The question now arises: what will Team India's playing XI look like for the first Test? While Sarfaraz Khan has been included in the squad, it remains to be seen whether he will actually get to play.
Major Changes in Team India Squad
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Two significant changes have occurred since the BCCI first announced the squad for the Sri Lanka series. Jasprit Bumrah was initially included but later dropped out, with Aukib Nabi brought in as his replacement. Subsequently, Sai Sudharsan also withdrew from the series, and Sarfaraz Khan was added to the squad in his place. While Sarfaraz is en route to Sri Lanka, Aukib Nabi played the warm-up match but failed to take any wickets. Consequently, it is highly unlikely that he will make the playing XI for the first Test.
India Top & Middle Order Playing 11: Devdutt Padikkal Claims No. 3 Spot
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Regarding India's playing XI, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul are expected to open the batting. Devdutt Padikkal could be given the opportunity to bat at number three. Having scored a magnificent century in the warm-up match, he has significantly strengthened his case for a spot in the playing XI; there appears to be no reason to leave him out.
Shubman Gill is expected to bat at number four. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant at number five and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja at number six are considered strong contenders for their respective positions.
Also Read: Top 5 Bowlers with Most Maiden Overs in Test History
Lower Order & Bowling Attack Analysis
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As for the number seven spot, the choice will likely be between Dhruv Jurel and Saransh Jain, with Jurel appearing to be the frontrunner to secure the position. Kuldeep Yadav and Manav Suthar will play key roles in the spin department, while the responsibility for pace bowling is expected to rest on the shoulders of Mohammed Siraj and Gurnoor Brar.
India Probable Playing 11 vs Sri Lanka 1st Test
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Shubman Gill
- Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Dhruv Jurel / Saransh Jain
- Manav Suthar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Gurnoor Brar
Also Read: Top 5 Batsmen With Most International Runs in 2026 Till August
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