New Delhi: India A’s tour of Sri Lanka enters its multi-day phase with the start of a two-match unofficial Test series, providing a golden opportunity for several emerging stars to strengthen their chances of vying for higher honors in red-ball cricket. Led by wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel, India A will take on Sri Lanka A in two games in what is expected to be a tough test of the visitors’ format credentials.Pacer Aquib Nabi will be among those eager to make a strong statement when the series begins in Galle on Thursday. Nabi, who took 60 wickets in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy victory, was omitted for India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan, a decision that sparked debate among fans and pundits. A strong performance in Sri Lanka may further strengthen his case for selection in the national team, especially with India scheduled to tour New Zealand later this year where favorable conditions may suit his bowling style.The series also provides valuable opportunities for some fringe players and established performers. Apart from captain Jurel, Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal are also looking to strengthen their credentials in the race for the first-class spot. Fast bowler Anshul Kamboj, who is looking for redemption after a difficult Test debut in England last year, is also in the lineup, as is Harsh Dubey, who recently made his ODI debut. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Gunoor Brar add more depth to a team loaded with talent and ambition.The red-ball assignment comes after the limited-overs matches of the tour and will provide an important platform for the players to fight for a spot in the Indian senior team. With conditions in Sri Lanka traditionally rewarding spin, patience and discipline, the unofficial Test is expected to provide a valuable learning experience and meaningful gauge of the team’s readiness for the next level.
Sri Lanka A vs India A Unofficial Test 2026 journey
First unofficial testDate: June 25-28, 2026Match Venue: Galle International Stadiumsecond informal testDate: July 2-5, 2026Match Venue: Galle International StadiumLive game start timeEstimated start time for both unofficial Tests: 10:00 AM local time (Sri Lanka) / 10:00 AM US standard time
IND A vs SL A team
- India Answer: Dhruv Jurel (captain, goalkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain, Gurnoor Brar, Augib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, N. Jagade Brar, Augib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, N. JagadeZesan
- Sri LankaA: Niroshan Dickwella (Goalkeeper), Nuwanidu Fernando, Ashen Bandara, Sahan Arachchige (Captain), Pawantha Weerasinghe, Dilum Sudeera, Ravindu Fernando, Keshara Nuwantha, Kavindu Pathiratne, Mohamed Shiraz, Dulaj Samk, Keshara Nuwantha, Kavindu Pathiratne, Mohamed Shiraz, Dulaj Samham Sama, Praveen Live, Swam, Aohantha, Saham Sam Gunasekara, Ahan Wickramasinghe.
Why this series is importantAlthough unofficial exams do not have international status, they are often seen as important stepping stones to the highest levels. For India, the tour provides an opportunity to assess the strength of the bench and identify future contenders for the national team.
