India Take Major Call On Shubman Gill Ahead Of 1st Test vs Sri Lanka

Team India Injury Crisis: 13 Top Cricketers Under Rehabilitation At BCCI CoE - Full List

Prateek Thakur — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 17:43:31 +0530

Team India are dealing with a major injury crisis, with 13 players currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, according to reports. The list includes senior names such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, along with several players from India's wider selection pool.

The injuries range from knee, hamstring and quadriceps problems to shoulder issues, stress fractures and a rib fracture. With India preparing for important international assignments, the fitness of these 13 players remains a key concern.

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Here is the reported injury status of all 13 players.

1. Jasprit Bumrah: Left Knee Synovitis

Jasprit Bumrah is recovering from synovitis in his left knee.

According to reports, Bumrah has undergone fluid drainage from the knee and received joint injections. However, he continues to experience discomfort while performing basic jogging drills.

The fast bowler is currently not ready to handle the workload required for competitive cricket, with no fixed timeline for his return.

2. Hardik Pandya: Left-Thigh Quadriceps Injury And Calf Pain

Hardik Pandya is undergoing rehabilitation for a quadriceps injury in his left thigh along with calf pain.

Reports suggest that Pandya had progressed to bowling at 80-90% intensity before a fresh pain flare-up in his right calf forced him to temporarily stop bowling.

He is expected to resume bowling drills from August 10 as he continues his rehabilitation.

3. Washington Sundar: Right Hamstring Injury

Washington Sundar is recovering from a right hamstring injury.

He is undergoing structured physical therapy at the BCCI Centre of Excellence as he works towards resolving recurring hamstring-related concerns.

4. Sai Sudharsan: Stress Reaction In Right Foot

Sai Sudharsan is recovering from a stress reaction in his right foot.

The left-handed batter has resumed net practice for up to 75 minutes, but reports indicate that pain around his toe continues after training sessions.

He is also awaiting a final MRI scan as part of his recovery assessment.

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5. Nitish Kumar Reddy: Left-Thigh Quadriceps Injury

Nitish Kumar Reddy has progressed to the 'Return to Skills' phase of his rehabilitation after suffering a quadriceps injury in his left thigh.

Reports state that he has bowled 16 overs at around 60-70% intensity over the past week while also undergoing sprint conditioning.

His workload is being increased gradually as he works towards full fitness.

6. Harshit Rana: Right Hamstring Strain

Harshit Rana is recovering from a right hamstring strain.

The fast bowler is reportedly making positive physical progress and has been working on his body conditioning while increasing his agility drills.

7. Riyan Parag: Right Shoulder Rehabilitation

Riyan Parag is undergoing rehabilitation following surgery on his right shoulder.

His recovery programme is focused on gradually restoring shoulder mobility, throwing strength and overall match fitness.

8. Yudhvir Singh Charak: Right Shoulder Injury

Yudhvir Singh Charak is sidelined with a right shoulder injury.

He is currently away from bowling activities while completing targeted rehabilitation exercises focused on the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilisation.

9. Varun Chakravarthy: Left Hamstring Strain

Varun Chakravarthy is recovering from a left hamstring strain.

The spinner is completing rehabilitation protocols designed to restore his hamstring strength and running speed before he can return to competitive cricket.

10. Akash Deep: Lower-Back Stress Fracture

Akash Deep is recovering from a stress fracture in his lower back.

According to reports, the fast bowler remains under strict medical supervision and is currently resting to allow the injury to heal completely.

He will begin bowling reconditioning only after the required recovery period.

11. Himanshu Singh: Right Knee Injury

Himanshu Singh is undergoing rehabilitation for a right knee injury.

His current programme involves localised knee therapy aimed at strengthening the muscles around the joint and reducing pressure on the affected area.

12. Suyash Sharma: Knee Injury

Suyash Sharma is recovering from a knee injury at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

He is undergoing a phased rehabilitation programme focused on resolving the injury before he can resume full spin-bowling activities.

13. Ashok Sharma: Lower-Back And 11th-Rib Fractures

Ashok Sharma is dealing with a lower-back stress fracture as well as an 11th-rib fracture.

Reports indicate that the fast bowler is currently following a demanding rehabilitation programme and has been restricted to non-impact rest.

Medical staff are monitoring his recovery as he works towards healing from both injuries.

Why Is Team India Facing A 13-Player Injury Crisis?

The growing injury list has put the spotlight on India's player workload and recovery management.

Reports have pointed towards the relentless cricket calendar, with international matches and franchise commitments leaving limited windows for players to recover fully between assignments.

There have also been concerns over communication between team management and the Centre of Excellence medical staff regarding return-to-play clearances.

Another concern is the recurrence of injuries among players returning to competitive cricket, particularly in areas such as the quadriceps, hamstrings and lower back.

BCCI Focuses On Fitness Benchmarks

The players undergoing rehabilitation are not expected to return simply because a particular target date has arrived.

According to reports, the BCCI is prioritising fitness benchmarks before allowing players to return to match conditions. Players must complete the required physical tests and medical assessments, including MRI evaluations where necessary, before receiving clearance.

For Team India, the immediate challenge is to manage the 13-player injury list while ensuring that returning players are fully prepared for the demands of international cricket.

(This article is a consolidated report based on injury updates and rehabilitation information published across multiple reports available online. The details have been presented for informational purposes and may change as players undergo further medical assessments and rehabilitation. ABP Live does not independently claim or confirm medical diagnoses beyond the information reported by the cited sources.)

Top 10 Indian Cricketers With Most International Matches

Shivam Sharma — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 17:12:12 +0530

The Indian team is preparing for a two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with the opening match scheduled to begin on August 15 at Galle and the second Test set to start on August 23 in Colombo. The series could also bring a notable milestone for Ravindra Jadeja.

If Jadeja features in both Tests, he will move into the top 10 Indian players with the most international appearances, overtaking former opener Virender Sehwag. Jadeja currently has 373 international appearances, while Sehwag finished his career with 374.

Here is the current top 10 list:

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 664 matches

The legendary Sachin Tendulkar tops the list with 664 international appearances for India. Across his career, he accumulated 34,357 runs and remains the only batter to have scored 100 international centuries. He also picked up 201 wickets.

2. Virat Kohli – 562 matches

Virat Kohli has represented India 562 times across the three formats since making his international debut in 2008. Having retired from Tests and T20Is, Kohli now features only in ODIs. He has scored 28,359 international runs and has 85 centuries.

3. MS Dhoni – 538 matches

India's former captain MS Dhoni played 538 international matches between 2004 and 2019. He finished with 17,266 runs and played a central role in India's World Cup triumphs in both the ODI and T20 formats.

4. Rohit Sharma – 514 matches

Rohit Sharma has made 514 international appearances for India. Like Kohli, he has retired from Tests and T20Is and now plays only ODIs. The former captain has scored 20,427 runs and registered 51 international centuries.

5. Rahul Dravid – 509 matches

Rahul Dravid represented India in 509 international matches and amassed 24,208 runs. The former India captain and head coach also scored 48 international centuries during his distinguished career.

6. Mohammad Azharuddin – 433 matches

Former captain Mohammad Azharuddin occupies sixth place with 433 appearances for India. He scored 15,593 international runs, including 29 centuries.

7. Sourav Ganguly – 424 matches

Sourav Ganguly played 424 international matches for India. The former captain accumulated 18,575 runs and scored 38 centuries during his career.

8. Anil Kumble – 403 matches

India's legendary spinner Anil Kumble made 403 international appearances. Apart from being one of India's most successful bowlers, Kumble also went on to serve as the team's head coach.

9. Yuvraj Singh – 402 matches

Yuvraj Singh, famously known as India's 'Sixer King', represented the country in 402 international matches. He scored 11,778 runs and hit 17 centuries.

10. Virender Sehwag – 374 matches

Virender Sehwag currently occupies the 10th position with 374 international appearances. The explosive opener scored 17,253 runs and registered 38 centuries for India.

Jadeja set to break into top 10

Jadeja has currently played 373 international matches for India. If he takes part in both Tests against Sri Lanka, his tally will rise to 375, taking him past Sehwag and into 10th place on the all-time list.

PCB Blocks Pakistan Star All-Rounder From Playing In Overseas League, Franchise Left Waiting

Prateek Thakur — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 16:16:18 +0530

Saim Ayub's participation in the 2026 Caribbean Premier League is in doubt after the Pakistan Cricket Board reportedly withheld his No Objection Certificate, leaving Jamaica Kingsmen waiting for the Pakistan all-rounder.

Without the required NOC, Ayub cannot join the CPL franchise and begin his campaign in the overseas T20 league.

Jamaica Kingsmen Begin CPL Campaign Without Saim Ayub

Jamaica Kingsmen opened their CPL 2026 campaign against Antigua & Barbuda Falcons on August 7 but were forced to go without Ayub.

The Kingsmen suffered a two-wicket defeat in their opening game. Rovman Powell and Reeza Hendricks made useful contributions with the bat, while Alzarri Joseph's three-wicket spell helped the Falcons secure victory.

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Jamaica have five Pakistan players in their squad for the season: Hassan Khan, Hunain Shah, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan and Maaz Sadaqat. Hassan and Hunain were the only two available for the opening match, while Ayub, Usman and Maaz were unavailable.

Ayub's NOC Remains The Key Issue

Ayub, Usman Khan and Maaz Sadaqat were previously expected to miss Jamaica's first five matches, with the franchise making temporary arrangements for their absence.

Reeza Hendricks opened the innings against the Falcons and scored 42 off 25 balls, while Tayyab Arif and Shayan Jahangir are among the other players available to cover the missing batters.

After the defeat, Jamaica captain Rovman Powell hinted that the franchise could make adjustments to its combination in the coming matches.

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“We struggled in the middle overs to build that pressure that we needed to. You know, in hindsight, maybe a few little plans could have been better. But having said that, I think we did well,” Powell said after the match.

However, Ayub's availability ultimately depends on receiving clearance from the PCB. He will also need to join the franchise and complete the necessary preparations before being considered for selection.

Saim Ayub's Recent Numbers

Ayub featured for Hyderabad Kingsmen during the 2026 Pakistan Super League, scoring 258 runs in 13 innings at an average of 21.50. He recorded one half-century, which came against Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL final in Lahore.

With the ball, the 24-year-old picked up six wickets at an economy rate of 8.27.

Hyderabad Kingsmen reached the final in their debut PSL season, with Ayub contributing to their run to the title match.

Jamaica Kingsmen will now wait for clarity over his NOC as they continue their CPL 2026 campaign.

Rohit Sharma Leads T20 XI Picked By Pakistani Cricketer, No Pakistan Player Included

Shivam Sharma — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 16:13:35 +0530

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has attracted plenty of attention after revealing his ideal T20 team, with one detail in particular surprising fans: not a single Pakistani cricketer made the cut. A video of the interview has gone viral, with supporters reacting to his choices and some even trolling the Pakistan star.

During the conversation, Shadab was asked to choose his preferred players for different T20 roles, including opener, power-hitter, all-rounder, bowler, spinner, wicketkeeper and captain. He named several legendary names from around the world, with Rohit Sharma receiving the biggest honour as his choice for captain.

Rohit Sharma gets captaincy

Shadab picked Rohit as his ideal T20 opener and also entrusted him with leading the side. Rohit captained India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title, making the choice particularly noteworthy.

For the power-hitting role, Shadab went with Nicholas Pooran, while former West Indies star Kieron Pollard was his preferred all-rounder.

Pollard's remarkable T20 career includes more than 14,000 runs and over 300 wickets, highlighting his reputation as one of the format's greatest all-rounders.

Shadab selected former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond as his fast bowler, explaining that he admired Bond's bowling action. Despite playing only 40 T20 matches during his career, Bond left a lasting impression on the Pakistan all-rounder.

For spin, Shadab chose Sunil Narine, while Quinton de Kock was his preferred wicketkeeper.

Shadab Khan's ideal T20 picks:

Opener and captain: Rohit Sharma
Power-hitter: Nicholas Pooran
All-rounder: Kieron Pollard
Pacer: Shane Bond
Spinner: Sunil Narine
Wicketkeeper: Quinton de Kock

West Indies dominates his selections

West Indies had the strongest representation in Shadab's team, with Pooran, Pollard and Narine all making the cut.

Narine's selection is particularly understandable given his extraordinary record in the shortest format. The mystery spinner has taken more than 600 wickets in T20 cricket and ranks among the most successful bowlers in the history of the format.

No Pakistan player makes cut

The biggest talking point, however, was the complete absence of a Pakistani player from Shadab's selections. Pakistan has produced several hugely successful T20 cricketers. Babar Azam is among the leading run-scorers in men's T20 internationals, while Shoaib Malik has enjoyed an exceptional career across T20 leagues around the world. Shadab himself has also crossed the 400-wicket mark in T20 cricket.

Despite those credentials, the Pakistan all-rounder opted for an entirely international combination when putting together his perfect T20 team.

Sri Lanka Test Twist: This CSK Star Emerges As Injured Sai Sudharsan's Replacement

Prateek Thakur — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 15:40:56 +0530

India have suffered another setback ahead of their two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with Sai Sudharsan ruled out of the tour due to a toe injury. According to RevSportz Journalist Rohit Juglan, Sarfaraz Khan is now the frontrunner to replace the left-handed batter in India's squad.

The development comes at an interesting time for Sarfaraz, who recently shared an emotional Instagram Story after being overlooked for the original Sri Lanka squad. “I may not fit in, but I'll fight with everything I've got,” the Mumbai batter wrote.

Sarfaraz could now get another opportunity to fight his way back into India's Test setup, with Sudharsan's injury potentially opening the door for his return.

India will begin the two-match series in Galle on August 15, followed by the second Test in Colombo from August 23. Jasprit Bumrah is also unavailable after failing to recover from a knee injury, with uncapped pacer Auqib Nabi named as his replacement.

Sarfaraz Khan In Line For India Recall

Sudharsan did not travel to Sri Lanka with the Indian team and has been continuing his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. According to RevSportz, he has not recovered in time to feature in the Test series.

Sarfaraz is reportedly the leading candidate to take his place.

The 28-year-old last played for India during the 2024 home Test series against New Zealand. He scored 171 runs in six innings, including a memorable 150 in the opening Test, and finished as India's third-highest run-scorer in the series.

However, a run of low scores subsequently saw him lose his place. He was not selected for the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy or the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

Sarfaraz has scored 371 runs in 11 Test innings at an average of 37.10, including one century and three half-centuries.

Strong Domestic Record Keeps Sarfaraz In Contention

Sarfaraz's case is also backed by his continued performances in red-ball cricket.

The Mumbai batter scored 429 runs in seven matches during the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy at an average of 53.62. His ability against spin and his effectiveness with sweep shots could make him particularly useful in Sri Lankan conditions.

Sudharsan's absence is a blow for India after his outstanding India A tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year. He finished as the leading run-scorer with 332 runs in four innings at an average of 166.00, including two centuries and a best score of 168.

His injury has now potentially created an opportunity for Sarfaraz, who had appeared to be outside India's immediate plans despite his domestic record.

Devdutt Padikkal Adds To Selection Debate With Century

Meanwhile, Devdutt Padikkal strengthened his own case during India's three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI.

After Sri Lanka Cricket XI declared their first innings at 363/8, India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal for a two-ball duck on the second day.

Padikkal was then used at No.3 and responded with a century, putting together a 96-run partnership with KL Rahul, who made 40 off 67 balls.

The left-hander reached 103 from 121 deliveries, hitting 14 fours, before retiring out. At the time of his departure, India were 168/2 after 40 overs, with Ravindra Jadeja unbeaten on 23 and Rishabh Pant yet to score.

Ravindu Rasantha had earlier top-scored with 71 for Sri Lanka Cricket XI, while Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and Manav Suthar claimed two wickets apiece for India. Gurnoor Brar took one wicket.

With Sudharsan now ruled out and Padikkal making a strong case at No.3, India's batting combination for the first Test has become another talking point ahead of the series.

Big Blow For India! Star Batter Ruled Out Of IND vs SL Test Series

Shivam Sharma — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 15:22:36 +0530

Sai Sudharsan is set to miss India's upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka after failing to recover fully from a foot injury, according to reports. The batter had been India's preferred choice at No. 3 in recent Tests, but his absence could open the door for Devdutt Padikkal, who strengthened his case with a century in the ongoing warm-up game against Sri Lanka XI in Colombo.

Sudharsan was initially included in India's squad for the Sri Lanka tour, although his participation was dependent on receiving medical clearance. He did not travel with the rest of the squad on August 4 and was expected to join the team in Colombo later.

However, reports now suggest that the 24-year-old will not be fit in time for either Test.

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"Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of India's two-match Test series against Sri Lanka due to an injury. The batter reportedly trained at the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru, where he also took part in batting and fielding drills. However, he was unlikely to recover in time for the first Test against Sri Lanka, scheduled to begin in Galle on August 15," a BCCI source told ANI.

Sudharsan's rehab in Bengaluru

Sudharsan has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, but the medical team has reportedly advised him to continue his recovery rather than risk an early return.

The selectors are expected to announce a replacement for Sudharsan in the coming days.

Sai Sudharsan's last appearance for India came in the one-off Test against Afghanistan. He has so far featured in seven Tests, accumulating 383 runs, including three half-centuries. India will begin the Sri Lanka series with the first Test in Galle on August 15, while the second match is scheduled to take place in Colombo from August 23.

'RCB, RCB' Chants Rock Sri Lanka As IPL Fever Takes Over India Test Match; Here's Why

Prateek Thakur — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 15:06:03 +0530

Sri Lanka vs India Test: India batter Devdutt Padikkal's century sparked RCB chants from Indian fans during India's practice match in Sri Lanka, adding an IPL flavour to the ongoing Test preparations.

Padikkal was given an opportunity at No.3 in the practice game as India assess their options ahead of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The left-hander made the most of the chance, scoring 103 off 121 balls before retiring out after reaching his century.

His knock drew a lively response from the Indian supporters in the stands. Soon after Padikkal completed his hundred, fans began chanting "RCB, RCB", acknowledging his association with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

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Padikkal Makes No.3 Case With Century

Padikkal's century comes at an important time as India assess their batting combination for the upcoming Tests.

He was used at No.3 in the practice match, a position he has considerable experience in from domestic cricket. His ability to bat there could make him an option as India look to finalise their middle-order combination.

Padikkal's performance also adds to his recent confidence after his IPL campaign with RCB. He has been closely associated with the franchise and was part of the RCB side that won the IPL title in the recently concluded season.

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After reaching 103 from 121 deliveries, Padikkal retired out, allowing other members of the squad to get valuable time in the middle.

The century could strengthen his case for the No.3 position, although India's final combination will depend on the fitness and availability of the other contenders.

Women's WC Star's Wife Slams CA Over Cheating Scandal Involving Junior Female Player

Prateek Thakur — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 14:00:25 +0530

Australia women's cricket vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner has come under renewed scrutiny after her estranged wife, Monica Wright, criticised Cricket Australia over its handling of allegations concerning Gardner's personal life.

Wright has questioned why Cricket Australia has not publicly addressed the allegations and called for Gardner to lose her leadership position.

The controversy centres on Wright's allegations involving Gardner and fellow Australian cricketer Georgia Voll. Wright has argued that the alleged conduct should have consequences for Gardner's role within the national team.

Gardner's Wife Questions Cricket Australia's Silence

Speaking to Code Sports, Wright said players who represent Australia have a responsibility to maintain high standards, particularly when they hold leadership positions.

“I think if you’re privileged enough to represent your country and be seen as a role model, there’s a responsibility to hold yourself to a high moral standard,” Wright told Code Sports.

Wright then questioned Cricket Australia's decision not to publicly comment on the matter.

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“What I can’t understand is why Cricket Australia hasn’t said anything publicly. Does their silence mean they support the actions of Ashleigh and Georgia?”

She also alleged that the situation involved a power imbalance and argued that Gardner should not continue in a leadership position if the allegations were accurate.

“You can’t have an affair with a junior member of staff, especially when there’s a clear power imbalance, and then remain in a position of leadership. Captains are expected to set the standard, and that kind of conduct falls well short of it,” she added.

The allegations have not been independently established in the material provided.

Wright Previously Named Georgia Voll

Wright first spoke publicly about the matter in July after sharing a Daily Mail report on her Instagram Story.

She described the report as too vague and suggested that she would provide her own version of events. In a subsequent post, Wright shared a photograph of Georgia Voll and alleged that the Australia cricketer was the person involved in the alleged infidelity.

Gardner and Wright married in April 2025 but have since separated. Reports cited by the Daily Mail said their relationship came under strain while Gardner was in India during the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup.

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Wright also travelled to India during the tournament, with an unnamed source describing their meeting as awkward. Gardner has reportedly since moved out of their Sydney home.

Cricket Australia Responds To Allegations

Cricket Australia, responding to Wright's latest comments to Code Sports, maintained that it considered the matter private and personal.

The governing body also said its policies cover relationships within its workforce and leadership responsibilities.

“Cricket Australia ensures all relationships within our workforce comply with our Respect at Work policy. This includes putting appropriate conflict-of-interest management arrangements in place to support leadership responsibilities and maintain the integrity of team processes,” CA said.

Gardner has continued to receive support within Australian cricket. According to news.com.au, her Women's Big Bash League franchise, the Sydney Sixers, has backed the all-rounder amid the controversy.

Gardner Remains Key Australia Player

Despite the off-field controversy, Gardner remains an important member of Australia's women's team.

She was part of the Australian side that recently maintained its remarkable Women's T20 World Cup record, winning a seventh title in eight final appearances.

The focus now remains on whether Cricket Australia will take any further action following Wright's public criticism and allegations concerning Gardner's relationship with Voll.

India Take Major Call On Shubman Gill Ahead Of 1st Test vs Sri Lanka

Shivam Sharma — Sat, 8 Aug 2026 13:58:37 +0530

India captain Shubman Gill is unlikely to take any further part in the ongoing warm-up game against Sri Lanka XI in Colombo, according to a report by Times of India. Gill reportedly hurt his finger during a training session before the practice match and consequently stayed off the field on the opening day.

BCCI described his absence as a precautionary decision, with the injury not believed to be serious. However, the report suggests that the team management is unlikely to risk Shubman Gill by allowing him to bat in the remaining part of the warm-up fixture.

With his finger reportedly in good condition, the decision appears to be aimed at ensuring the India captain is fully fit for the more important assignment - the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle from August 15. The management does not want to take any unnecessary chances with Gill so close to the start of the two-match series.

Rahane's golden advice for Team India

Meanwhile, former India captain Ajinkya Rahane has urged the team's batters to adopt a positive approach against Sri Lanka's spin attack. He believes India cannot afford to become overly defensive against quality spinners on turning pitches.

Rahane has plenty of experience playing in Sri Lanka. During India's 2017 tour, he was an important contributor as the visitors completed a 3-0 Test series sweep, with the right-hander scoring more than 200 runs, including a century and a half-century.

“I think in Sri Lanka, the first day wicket generally is very good. But being top of the bowler as a batsman is very important. That's what I have learned in Sri Lanka. You cannot be too defensive,” Rahane, who recently announced his retirement, told PTI in an interview facilitated by ETPL.

“You have to probably be more proactive because they will have spin friendly wickets, and Sri Lanka do have decent spinners in their side. And again, a home team is always a tough team to beat. Whatever I've learned playing cricket for so many years, you can't take anyone for lightly.

“So it's all about, I think, having your own game plan as an individual and being proactive. Even in Test cricket, it's going to be the key,” he added.