Kuldeep Yadav was removed from the playing XI for the second Test match against Sri Lanka that began on Sunday. The 31-year-old was part of the playing XI in the last game and managed to take the wicket of Kamindu Mendis.
India captain Shubman Gillspeaking after the toss, said that the player was out of the game due to an infection. This also gave a chance for veteran spinner Saransh Jain to make his India debut after warming the bench in the opening game.
Cheteshwar Pujarawho was part of the pre-game analysis team for Sony Sports Network, used this as a chance to take a dig at the team management. Pujara said he wanted to know what kind of infection the 31-year-old had. Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad quickly stepped in, asking the management to be honest about the decision.
BCCI, for their part, put out a statement on their X-handle which read “UPDATE: Mr Kuldeep Yadav has not fully recovered from his viral illness. He was unavailable for selection in the Playing XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka. However, he can take the field as a concussion substitute, if required.”
UPDATE: Mr Kuldeep Yadav has not fully recovered from his viral illness.
He was unavailable for selection in the Playing XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka.
However, he can take the field as a concussion substitute, if required. #TeamIndia | #SLvIND
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 23, 2026
Indian team make strong start to Colombo Test
The visiting side came out to bat with Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul adding 37 runs for the opening wicket. Both batters played some good shots on a pitch that seemed flat and good for stroke-play. Lahiru Kumara drew first blood when he had Rahul caught behind by Niroshan Dickwella for 18 runs.
Jaiswal kept going, showing attacking intent in his knock of 45. He was ultimately sent back by Asitha Fernando and was given a send-off by the bowler. Ugly scenes were witnessed when the two cricketers clashed before being separated.
Gill and Devdutt Padikkal then combined for a stand of 120 for the third wicket off 209 balls. Indian skipper scored his 50, which came off 108 balls. His innings ended when he was caught by the wicketkeeper just at the stroke of tea.
Devdutt Padikkal scored a hundred as India reached 300 for 5 at stumps on Day 1.