Who should be India's 5 bowlers in 1st Test against Sri Lanka?

India are set to open their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Cricket Stadium, with the first Test scheduled from August 15 to 19, 2026. The series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, and both sides will be keen to strengthen their WTC standings.

The BCCI's Men's Selection Committee announced India's 15-man squad on July 28, 2026. Several injury-related developments have since shaped the available options. Jasprit Bumrah, who had returned to the squad after missing the Afghanistan series in June 2026, was subsequently ruled out injured, with Auqib Nabi named as his replacement. Washington Sundar will also miss the first Test in Galle due to injury. The Galle surface is expected to be a turning track, though the new ball typically offers movement in the opening session, making the pace-spin balance an important consideration.

Here are five bowlers India should pick for the upcoming 1st Test against Sri Lanka

5. Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja is returning to India's Test squad after recovering from a tennis elbow injury sustained during IPL 2026. A left-arm orthodox spinner who also contributes valuable runs in the lower order, Jadeja is a natural fit for the turning conditions at Galle. His ability to bowl long spells and build pressure through accuracy makes him an automatic selection in this combination. The Galle surface historically assists left-arm spin, and Jadeja's all-round value adds balance to the lower order as well.