Sai Sudharsan Ruled Out of Sri Lanka Test Series
India have suffered another injury setback ahead of their upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with Sai Sudharsan ruled out of the tour due to a toe injury.
The 24-year-old left-handed batter has been recovering from the injury and was not part of the Indian squad that travelled to Sri Lanka earlier this week. Sudharsan also missed India’s ongoing warm-up fixture in Colombo, raising concerns over his availability for the Test series.
According to BCCI sources, the medical team has advised Sudharsan to allow additional time for biological healing before making his return to competitive cricket. Although his recovery has progressed well, it has not reached a stage where he can safely handle the demands of Test cricket.
The team management is taking a cautious approach with the batter. His rehabilitation, strength and conditioning work, along with cricket-specific activities, are expected to be increased gradually under medical supervision. The priority is to ensure that Sudharsan makes a complete recovery and avoids aggravating the injury or suffering a recurrence.
His absence adds to India’s growing injury concerns before the first Test. Jasprit Bumrah is already unavailable for the series, while Washington Sundar is also carrying an injury and remains a doubt for the second Test. Captain Shubman Gill has also missed the ongoing warm-up match after suffering an impact injury to his right ring finger during training.
Sudharsan’s absence could open the door for Devdutt Padikkal to take up the crucial No. 3 position. Padikkal has strengthened his claim with an impressive unbeaten 142 in the warm-up game in Colombo. He had initially retired hurt after reaching 103 but returned to the crease later and completed his century-plus score without being dismissed.
For India, Padikkal’s form will come as a welcome boost at a difficult time. However, replacing Sudharsan will still be a significant challenge, particularly given the importance of stability in the top order during a Test series.
With several key players dealing with fitness issues, India’s preparations for the Sri Lanka Tests have already been disrupted. The team management will now hope that the remaining players stay fit and that Sudharsan can make a full recovery before returning to international cricket.