India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule put all fitness concerns to rest regarding Test captain Shubman Gill following the conclusion of their warm-up fixture against Sri Lanka Cricket XI. The 26-year-old had sat out the opening two days of the practice match as a protective measure after taking two blows to his right hand right before the game. Returning to action on the final day, Gill completed an extensive net session before opening the batting in India's pursuit of 207, scoring a fluent 44 runs to confirm his readiness for the upcoming series.
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Bahutule ends speculation around Gill's availability for IND vs SL 1st Test
Speaking to the media after India wrapped up a six-wicket victory, Bahutule clarified that keeping the skipper off the field initially was strictly a risk-management decision by the team management. He assured reporters that Gill remained in top physical shape throughout the period, adding that his seamless, authoritative display at the crease on the final day proved he is fully prepared to lead the team in the first Test.
Gill is very much ready for the Test match: Bahutule
Sairaj Bahutule highlighted Shubman Gill's exhaustive preparation ahead of the two-Test series starting August 15, noting that the Indian skipper leaves no detail to chance. According to the spin bowling coach, Gill meticulously tailored his practice sessions to counter Sri Lanka's specific bowling strengths. Using targeted net bowlers and structured game scenarios, the team management helped the captain simulate match conditions, allowing him to fine-tune his responses before stepping onto the field.
"And I think everything, the way he batted in the second inning was again, you know, flawless. And he is very much ready for the Test match,” Bahutule told reporters after the match.
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The practice match also highlighted key squad dynamics as India manages a growing injury list, with Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Sai Sudharsan all sidelined. While Devdutt Padikkal posted a standout performance to stake his claim, the selectors bolstered the roster by calling up Sarfaraz Khan as a direct replacement for the injured Sudharsan.