Sarfaraz Khan has been drafted into India’s Test squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka as a replacement for the injured Sai Sudharsan. Sarfaraz is expected to join the team ahead of their departure for Galle, where the opening Test is scheduled to begin on August 15.
Sudharsan, who is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for a right toe stress reaction, has shown significant recovery progress, according to a BCCI statement. In his absence, Devdutt Padikkal is considered the primary candidate to fill the No. 3 batting position, following his strong performance and century during the practice match against the SLC XI.
Sarfaraz brings experience from six previous Test appearances, most recently playing during the 2024 home series against New Zealand. Across 11 innings, he has accumulated one century and three half-centuries. His selection follows a productive 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign, where he recorded 429 runs in nine innings at an average of 53.62.
The scheduling of the Sri Lanka tour, running from August 7 to 27, overlaps with the Duleep Trophy, which takes place from August 23 to September 10. Although Sarfaraz was named in the West Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy, his national duties will take priority. Notably, the batter has not featured in professional cricket since his stint with the Chennai Super Kings during the IPL this past April.
He is set to link up with the squad before the team travels to Galle for the first Test which starts on August 15.
