Daijiworld Media Network – Colombo
Colombo, Aug 6: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed confidence that the team will be fully prepared for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, despite India's recent struggles in home Test cricket.
Addressing the players during a practice session in Colombo, Gambhir urged the squad to make the most of the preparations ahead of the series, which begins on August 15 in Galle.
“We know what’s in front of us and what we are playing for. We can push our limits and tick all the boxes. By August 15, whether we bat first or bowl first, we should be ready with every answer to every challenge that comes our way,” Gambhir said in a video shared by the BCCI.
India will play the opening Test in Galle from August 15, followed by the second Test in Colombo from August 23. The series marks India's first assignment in the ICC World Test Championship since their 0-2 home defeat to South Africa last December.
Gambhir also welcomed two new members of the squad — Madhya Pradesh spin-bowling all-rounder Saransh Jain and Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi.
Congratulating Saransh on his maiden national call-up, Gambhir praised his hard work and encouraged him to make the most of the opportunity.
He also lauded Auqib Nabi for his outstanding domestic season, during which he played a key role in helping Jammu & Kashmir win their maiden Ranji Trophy title. Nabi has been drafted into the squad as a replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah.
The Indian team is currently training in Sri Lanka ahead of the crucial Test series.