Ashwin India XI: Ashwin Picks Surprise India XI for Sri Lanka Test
Ravichandran Ashwin has backed an unexpected India combination for the opening Test against Sri Lanka, with Gurnoor Brar preferred over Prasidh Krishna in the pace attack.
Ashwin India XI: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has made an interesting prediction about India’s playing XI for the opening Test against Sri Lanka. His biggest surprise is the inclusion of Gurnoor Brar ahead of experienced pacer Prasidh Krishna.
The first Test is set to be played in Galle on Saturday, with the final team expected to be confirmed at the toss. Ashwin’s selection is not the official XI, but his choices have sparked discussion ahead of the series.
Ashwin has backed Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul to open the innings. Devdutt Padikkal is his preferred choice at No. 3, followed by captain Shubman Gill. Rishabh Pant has been picked at No. 5, while Dhruv Jurel gets the next spot.
Jurel’s selection comes at the expense of Sarfaraz Khan. Despite Sarfaraz being available again after Sai Sudharsan’s injury, Ashwin believes Jurel could offer greater balance in the middle order. His ability to remain composed under pressure appears to have influenced the former spinner’s choice.
The bowling combination is even more interesting. Ashwin has selected Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Kuldeep Yadav, giving India three left arm spin options. Galle is traditionally considered a favourable venue for spin, so the combination could allow India to put significant pressure on Sri Lanka’s batters.
The biggest gamble is in the pace department. Ashwin has picked Mohammed Siraj alongside Gurnoor Brar instead of Prasidh Krishna. The tall pacer could benefit from his height and generate additional bounce, which Ashwin believes could prove useful in Galle.
Brar’s inclusion would also add a fresh option to the bowling attack. His recent performances have strengthened his case, although the final decision will rest with the Indian team management.
Ashwin’s predicted XI is Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj.
The final combination could still change depending on the pitch, weather and team management’s assessment before the match. The official playing XI will be revealed at the toss.
For now, Ashwin’s prediction has given fans plenty to discuss, particularly his decision to leave out Prasidh Krishna and back Gurnoor Brar for the opening Test.
