Sri Lanka XI made a solid start against India on Day 1 of the three-day warm-up match at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground in Colombo, reaching 138/1 in 29 overs at lunch after choosing to bat first. The practice game is India’s final preparation ahead of the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.
The Indian team took the field without regular captain Shubman Gill, who was ruled out of the opening day’s play after suffering an impact injury to his right ring finger during training. In his absence, KL Rahul led the side.
Sri Lanka XI Make Positive Start
Winning the toss, Sri Lanka XI elected to bat first and capitalised on favourable batting conditions in Colombo.
By the lunch interval, the hosts had reached 138/1 in 29 overs, with the opening partnership laying a strong platform before India claimed its first wicket. The unbeaten batters then continued to build another useful partnership heading into the afternoon session.
Gill Ruled Out as Precaution
India’s preparations suffered a minor setback when captain Shubman Gill sustained a finger injury during a practice session.
The team management decided not to risk him on the opening day of the warm-up fixture, describing the decision as precautionary. The BCCI is monitoring his recovery ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka.
KL Rahul Leads the Team
With Gill unavailable, KL Rahul captained India for the day and oversaw the bowling changes as the visitors looked to gain valuable match practice.
The warm-up fixture gives India’s bowlers an opportunity to adapt to Sri Lankan conditions before the Test series begins later this month.
Importance of the Warm-Up Match
The three-day practice match is crucial for India’s preparations as it allows the team to:
- Assess players’ match fitness.
- Help bowlers adjust to local pitches.
- Give batters time in Sri Lankan conditions.
- Finalise combinations for the Test series.
What to Watch Next
The afternoon session will be important for India as the bowlers attempt to break Sri Lanka XI’s momentum and test the middle order.
Meanwhile, all eyes remain on Shubman Gill’s recovery, with team management hoping the injury is only a minor setback before the opening Test against Sri Lanka.
