India lose Sudharsan for Sri Lanka Tests: Big toe injury forces star batter out

Indian opener Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka after a big toe injury failed to heal in time, marking the second major blow to the squad following Jasprit Bumrah’s earlier withdrawal.

Sudharsan sustained the injury during the second game of India A’s tour of Sri Lanka last month. He was struck on the big toe while batting and has since been undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Despite significant improvement, doctors have advised additional time for biological healing, deeming his recovery insufficient for a safe return to Test cricket.

The Sports Science team monitoring his rehabilitation informed the national selection committee and team management of his unavailability. Sudharsan had impressed during the India A tour, scoring two centuries in two ‘A’ Test matches.

In his absence, Devdutt Padikkal is likely to step in as the new number three batter. Padikkal recently scored a century in a practice game, strengthening his case for inclusion. The selection committee is yet to formally announce the replacement, but Padikkal’s recent form makes him the frontrunner.

Sudharsan’s injury adds to India’s woes after pace spearhead Bumrah was ruled out of the series earlier. The team now faces a reshuffle in both batting and bowling departments ahead of the Tests.