NEW DELHI: India A’s tour of Sri Lanka enters its multi-day phase with the start of a two-match unofficial Test series, offering several emerging stars a golden opportunity to strengthen their claims for higher honours in red-ball cricket. Led by wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, India A will take on Sri Lanka A in a pair of matches expected to provide a stern examination of the visitors’ long-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 claimed 60 wickets during Jammu & Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy triumph, was overlooked for India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan, a decision that sparked debate among fans and experts. Strong performances in Sri Lanka could further strengthen his case for national selection, especially with India scheduled to tour New Zealand later this year, where seam-friendly conditions could suit his style of bowling.
The series also presents a valuable opportunity for several fringe players and established performers. Apart from skipper Jurel, Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal will look to bolster their credentials in the race for a top-order berth. Fast bowler Anshul Kamboj, seeking redemption after a difficult Test debut in England last year, and recent ODI debutant Harsh Dubey are also part of the squad. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Gurnoor Brar add further depth to a side brimming with talent and ambition.
The red-ball assignment follows the limited-overs leg of the tour and will serve as an important platform for players pushing for places in India’s senior setup. With conditions in Sri Lanka traditionally rewarding spin, patience and discipline, the unofficial Tests are expected to provide a valuable learning experience and a meaningful gauge of the squad’s readiness for the next level.
First Unofficial Test
Date: June 25-28, 2026
Venue: Galle International Stadium
Second Unofficial Test
Date: July 2-5, 2026
Venue: Galle International Stadium
Live match start times
Both unofficial Tests are scheduled to begin at: 10:00 AM local time (Sri Lanka)/10:00 AM IST
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IND A vs SL A Squads
India A: Dhruv Jurel (captain, wicketkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain, Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, N. Jagadeesan (wicketkeeper), Aman Mokhade, Shaik Rasheed, Zeeshan Ansari.
Sri Lanka A: Niroshan Dickwella (wicketkeeper), Nuwanidu Fernando, Ashen Bandara, Sahan Arachchige (captain), Pawantha Weerasinghe, Dilum Sudeera, Ravindu Fernando, Keshara Nuwantha, Kavindu Pathiratne, Mohamed Shiraz, Dulaj Samuditha, Praveen Maneesha, Asanka Manoj, Sohan de Livera, Chamika Gunasekara, Ahan Wickramasinghe.
Why the series matters
While unofficial Tests do not carry international status, they are often viewed as a crucial stepping stone to the highest level. For India, the tour provides an opportunity to assess bench strength and identify future contenders for the national side.
Tama Coby
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