The Jammu and Kashmir pacer played a key role in the state’s historic Ranji Trophy victory and ended the season with 60 wickets, earning widespread praise. However, his absence from the one-off Test squad against Afghanistan caused displeasure among fans and former cricketers.
Opportunities to strengthen testing qualifications
The tour of Sri Lanka now offers Nabi another opportunity to push for higher honours. A stellar performance in a challenging overseas environment may make it difficult for the selectors to overlook him in future Test programmes.
With India scheduled to tour New Zealand later this year, Nabi’s mobility and ability to get help from seaming conditions could work in his favour.
Gunur Bulla hopes to build on international debut
Also in the India A squad is left-arm pacer Gurnoor Brar, who recently impressed on his ODI debut against Afghanistan.
While Sri Lanka’s pitches are expected to help spinners more than fast bowlers, Brar will be keen to make an impact and continue to compete for a spot in the senior squad.
Sai Sudharsan’s crucial red-ball journey
This series will be equally important for batsman Sai Sudharsan, who will be looking to spend some time in the middle order and regain momentum ahead of India’s upcoming Test assignment.
Sudharsan is still vying for a seat in the XI exam and is keen to strengthen his credentials with good scores.
Devdutt Padikkal, who did not feature in the Afghanistan Test, is also part of the squad and continues to compete for a spot in the batting order.
Jurel will lead an experienced team
India wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Yurel will captain the team in both matches. The team also includes Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain and goalkeeper N Jagadeesan.
Pacer Anshul Kamboj, who endured a difficult debut in England last year, will be hoping for a strong performance to revive his red-ball prospects.
India A team
Dhruv Jurel (captain and goalkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain, Gurnoor Brar, Aquib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kambojes, N Jagade)
