Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 3: India have suffered a major setback ahead of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, with pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah being ruled out due to injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi as his replacement.

The two-match series, part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, will begin at the Galle International Stadium on August 15.

Bumrah was initially included in India's squad, subject to fitness clearance. Although reports had suggested that the 32-year-old had successfully completed his fitness assessment and was available for selection, the BCCI confirmed on Aug 2 that he would miss the series due to injury concerns.

To fill the vacancy, the selectors have drafted in Auqib Nabi, who has earned his maiden Test call-up following an outstanding domestic season.

Nabi impressed in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, claiming 60 wickets and playing a key role in guiding Jammu and Kashmir to their maiden Ranji Trophy title. His consistent performances over the past two domestic seasons paved the way for his inclusion in the national squad.

Bumrah's absence is another setback for India, given his recurring injury concerns. Considered one of the world's premier fast bowlers, he remains a vital part of India's Test plans.

During India's five-match Test series against England last year, Bumrah featured in only three matches as part of workload management measures. His latest injury comes at a crucial stage of the World Test Championship campaign, with India aiming to secure a place in the final.

India squad: Shubman Gill (captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain and Auqib Nabi.