Sai Sudharsan ruled out of Sri Lanka Test series

India's injury woes have deepened with Sai Sudharsan ruled out of the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

The left-hander, who is 24 years old and has been dealing with a toe injury, was a significant absentee when the Indian team traveled to Sri Lanka earlier this week. Additionally, he was absent from the ongoing warm-up game in Colombo.

According to BCCI sources, doctors have advised Sudharsan to allow more time for biological healing before returning to competitive cricket. Even though his recovery has improved significantly, it has not advanced sufficiently to allow him to safely return to Test cricket.

The medical team has recommended that his rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and cricket-specific workload be increased gradually under close monitoring. It is aware that the cautious approach aims to safeguard his long-term performance while lowering the likelihood of recurrence or additional complications.

Before the first Test, his absence adds to India's growing list of injuries. Jasprit Bumrah is already unavailable, while Washington Sundar is also dealing with an injury, although he has not yet been officially ruled out of the second Test. Captain Shubman Gill, meanwhile, has missed the ongoing warm-up fixture after sustaining an impact injury to his right ring finger during training.

With Sudharsan ruled out, Devdutt Padikkal is expected to slot into the No. 3 position after strengthening his case with an unbeaten 142 in the warm-up match. Having retired hurt on 103, he returned later in the innings to finish unbeaten on 142.