India's Test captain Gill ruled out of Day 1 after finger injury scare

India’s Test captain Shubman Gill was forced to sit out the opening day of the practice match against SLC XI after sustaining a right ring finger injury during a training session on August 5, 2026. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the injury as a precautionary measure, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

Gill’s injury occurred during a training session ahead of the three-day warm-up game. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring his progress, though he did not take the field on Day 1. K.L. Rahul led the Indian team in Gill’s absence, with the match proceeding as scheduled after SLC XI won the toss and elected to bat.

The first Test of the series is set to begin in Galle on August 15, 2026, followed by the second Test on August 23. While Gill’s participation remains uncertain, another injury concern—Taijul Islam, who picked up a niggle while batting in the tour game—is expected to be fit for the first Test despite not bowling in the practice match.

Gill’s absence extended to Day 2, as he did not bat, further intensifying worries about his fitness ahead of the series opener.