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Deep Dasgupta Picks India Playing XI for First Test Against Sri Lanka at Galle

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta has shared his preferred playing XI for the Indian cricket team ahead of their first Test against Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to commence on August 15, 2026, at the Galle International Stadium as part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.

What Happened

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Deep Dasgupta laid out his recommended team combination for India’s opening Test fixture against Sri Lanka. Emphasising the traditional spin-friendly conditions at Galle, Dasgupta selected a bowling attack comprising three spinners and two seam bowlers. He also designated Rishabh Pant as India’s most critical player for the upcoming series.

Key Highlights

  • Spin-Heavy Attack: Dasgupta opted for three specialist spinners—Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar, and Kuldeep Yadav—to capitalise on Galle’s conditions, which traditionally assist spin bowling.
  • Seam Options: Mohammed Siraj and Gurnoor Brar were selected as the two fast bowlers. Dasgupta noted that Brar’s recent experience with India A in Sri Lanka serves as valuable preparation.
  • Batting Line-up: The top order comprises Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, followed by Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Dhruv Jurel at number six.
  • Kuldeep’s Test Record: Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav was highlighted as a key figure in the bowling setup, having taken 79 wickets across 18 Test matches since his debut in 2017.
  • Dasgupta’s Complete Preferred XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, and Mohammed Siraj.

Why This Matters

The selection underscores the tactical adjustment required for Test matches played at Galle, where spin bowlers generally exert a significant influence on the outcome. Dasgupta’s lineup also balances specialist batting by featuring both Pant and Jurel, alongside multiple spin-bowling and pace options, in preparation for the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.

What to Watch Next

The first Test between India and Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin on August 15, 2026, at Galle. Official squad announcements and team selections will confirm the final XI closer to the match date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who did Deep Dasgupta name as India’s most important player for the Sri Lanka series?

Dasgupta identified wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant as the most crucial player for India in the Test series against Sri Lanka.

Which spinners were selected in Dasgupta’s preferred XI?

Dasgupta chose three spinners: Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar, and Kuldeep Yadav.

Why was Gurnoor Brar included in the pace bowling unit?

Dasgupta cited Gurnoor Brar’s recent tour to Sri Lanka with India A as valuable experience that justifies his inclusion alongside Mohammed Siraj.

Source: CricTracker / Deep Dasgupta YouTube Channel