Bumrah, who had initially been named in the squad subject to fitness clearance, has been ruled out after failing to recover fully from a knee issue. The Indian team management has opted against rushing the premier fast bowler back, with a view to managing his workload ahead of a busy international calendar.
Auqib, who has not played for India so far, has impressed with his bowling in domestic cricket. He topped the wicket-takers’ list in the 2025-26 edition of the Ranji Trophy and played a key role in helping Jammu and Kashmir win its maiden Ranji Trophy title.
India is already without Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana because of hamstring injuries, while Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the first Test with a similar issue.
India begins its two-match ICC World Test Championship series against Sri Lanka in Galle on August 15, with Mohammed Siraj expected to spearhead the pace attack in Bumrah’s absence.
Published on Aug 03, 2026
Discover more from News Link360
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
