India A vs Sri Lanka A Live Score, 1st Unofficial Test. Dhruv Jurel won the toss, chose to bat against SL A in Galle

The Jammu and Kashmir pacer earned widespread praise after playing a pivotal role in his state’s historic Ranji Trophy win, ending the season with 60 wickets. However, his absence from the squad for the one-off Test against Afghanistan has raised eyebrows among fans and former cricketers.

Opportunity to strengthen Test credentials

The Sri Lanka tour now offers Nabi another chance to push his case for a higher honour. A strong showing in challenging overseas conditions could make it difficult for selectors to ignore him in future Test plans.

With India scheduled to tour New Zealand later this year, Nabi’s ability to generate momentum and get help from seaming conditions could work in his favour.

Gurnoor Brar looks set to make international debut

Also in the India A squad is left-arm pacer Gurnoor Brar, who recently impressed on his ODI debut against Afghanistan.

While the Sri Lankan pitches are expected to help the spinners more than the fast bowlers, Brar will be keen to make an impact and remain in contention for a place in the senior setup.

Important red-ball outing for Sai Sudharsan

The series could prove equally important for batsman Sai Sudharsan, who will be looking to take time out in the middle and regain momentum ahead of India’s upcoming Test assignments.

Sudharsan remains in contention for a place in the Test XI and is eager to bolster his credentials with more scores.

Devdutt Padikkal, who did not feature in the Afghanistan Test, is also part of the squad and continues to compete for a spot in the batting order.

Jurel will lead the experienced squad

India wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel will captain the side in both the matches. The squad also includes Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain and wicketkeeper N Jagadeesan.

Pacer Anshul Kamboj, who endured a tough Test debut in England last year, will be hoping for a strong performance to revive his red-ball prospects.

India A squad:

Dhruv Jurel (captain & wicketkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain, Gurnoor Brar, Aquib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, N Jagadeesan (wicketkeeper), Shaik Raheed and.