The Jammu and Kashmir pacer earned widespread plaudits after playing a key role in his country’s historic Ranji Trophy triumph, ending the season with 60 wickets. However, his omission from the squad for the one-off Test against Afghanistan has raised eyebrows among fans and former cricketers.
An opportunity to strengthen your exam credentials
The Sri Lanka tour now offers Nabi another chance to push his case for more honours. A stellar result in challenging overseas conditions could make it difficult for selectors to ignore him in future testing plans.
With India planning to tour New Zealand later this year, Nabi’s ability to generate movement and get help out of seam conditions could work in his favour.
Gurnoor Brar looks to follow up with an international debut
Also in the India A squad is left-armer Gurnoor Brar, who recently impressed on his ODI debut against Afghanistan.
While the pitches in Sri Lanka are expected to help the bowlers more than the fast bowlers, Brar will be looking to make an impact and remain in contention for a place in the senior line-up.
Crucial red ball move for Sai Sudharsan
The series could prove just as important for batsman Sai Sudharsan, who will look to spend time in the middle and regain momentum ahead of India’s upcoming Test assignments.
Sudharsan remains in contention for a place in the Test XI and will be eager to bolster his credentials with meaningful results.
Devdutt Padikkal, who did not feature in the Afghanistan Test, is also part of the squad and continues to compete for a place in the batting order.
Jurel will lead an experienced team
Indian goalkeeper Dhruv Jurel will captain the team in both the matches. The team also includes Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain and wicketkeeper N Jagadeesan.
Pacer Anshul Kamboj, who endured a difficult Test debut in England last year, will be hoping for a good performance to revive his red ball prospects.
India A team
Dhruv Jurel (captain and wicketkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain, Gurnoor Brar, Aquib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, N Jagadeesan (wicketkeeper), Aman Mokhade, Shaik Rasheed and Zeeshan Ansari.
