# India vs Sri Lanka Test squad selection > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/india-vs-sri-lanka-test-squad-selection > Updated: 2026-07-30T16:00:54.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. Ahead of the two‑match Test series in August 2026, cricket analysts released their preferred Indian line‑ups for the opening match in Galle. Former commentator Harsha Bhogle and ex‑CSK batsman Abhinav Mukund both kept KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal in the top order, named Shubman Gill as captain, and included wicket‑keeper‑batter Rishabh Pant and all‑rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Their selections differed on the pace attack, with Bhogle’s version hinging on Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and Mukund’s opting for Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj as the main pacers. Later the Board of Control for Cricket in India announced the official 15‑member squad for the series, confirming Pant’s inclusion and listing senior bowlers including Bumrah (subject to fitness clearance) and Jadeja, as well as newcomer Saransh Jain. The announcement sparked commentary, notably from former South African star AB de Villiers, who questioned Pant’s recent form but expressed hope that a national call‑up would restore his confidence. The series is a key component of the 2025‑27 World Test Championship, with India seeking points to improve its standing. ## Timeline ### 2026-07-30: Rishabh Pant's Test Squad Selection Sparks Debate Ahead of India‑Sri Lanka Series India’s Test squad for the August 2026 series in Sri Lanka includes wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, drawing criticism from AB de Villiers over his form, while Pant trains with MS Dhoni ahead of the World Test Champ. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rishabh-pants-test-squad-selection-sparks-debate-ahead-of-indiasri-lanka-series ### 2026-07-30: India announces Test XI for opening match against Sri Lanka Harsha Bhogle and Abhinav Mukund propose India’s Test XI for the first Sri Lanka match, highlighting Pant, Jurel, Bumrah’s fitness and a spin‑friendly line‑up to boost World Test Championship chances. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-announces-test-xi-for-opening-match-against-sri-lanka --- Cite as: India vs Sri Lanka Test squad selection. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/india-vs-sri-lanka-test-squad-selection