![BCCI selectors have chosen 2 more players for IND Vs SL Tests [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1785812767111_IndiaTestSquadVsSriLanka.jpg?type=hq)
BCCI selectors have chosen 2 more players for IND Vs SL Tests [Source: AFP]
In a significant development, the BCCI selection committee has chosen two more players to travel with the India Test squad to Sri Lanka. Led by Shubman Gill, India are set to face Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, starting on August 15, at the iconic Galle International Stadium.
On August 3, the BCCI formally added Auqib Nabi to the India Test squad for the Sri Lanka tour 2026 as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement. Hours after Nabi was included in the team, two more spin-bowling all-rounders were chosen by the BCCI selectors to travel with the Indian squad.
Harsh Dubey and Tanush Kotian to travel with India's Test squad to Sri Lanka
While the conditions in Sri Lanka are conducive to spin bowling, Harsh Dubey and Tanush Kotian missed out on selection for the two-match Test series, as the BCCI picked the quartet of Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar, Kuldeep Yadav and Saransh Jain in the India Test squad.
Jadeja made a comeback after missing the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Manav Suthar retained his spot following a stellar debut against the Afghans, while Saransh Jain earned his maiden call-up courtesy of his consistent returns in the domestic circuit.
However, although Harsh Dubey and Tanush Kotian couldn't get an entry into India's 15-member squad, the BCCI selectors chose them as net bowlers for the high-profile Sri Lanka tour.
As reported by Cricbuzz, Tanush Kotian and Harsh Dubey will travel with the Indian squad, set to depart for Sri Lanka on August 4.
"It is learnt that Tanush Kotian and Harsh Dubey are among the spinners chosen by the selectors to accompany the team as net bowlers. They will join the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain, who are all part of the squad," the Cricbuzz report stated.
Also Read: BCCI's Role In Jasprit Bumrah's India Vs Sri Lanka Test Series Snub Explained
How can Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian help the Indian team in Sri Lanka?
Harsh Dubey is a left-arm off-spinner and Tanush Kotian bowls right-arm off-spin. While India have a pool of designated spin bowling options, they need skilful net bowlers who can also help them prepare for the Sri Lanka Tests.
The pitches at the Galle International Stadium and Sinhalese Sports Club heavily assist spin bowling. Considering Sri Lanka will have a spin-heavy bowling attack, headed by Prabath Jayasuriya, the Indian batters need rigorous practice against spinners to succeed on the Lankan soil.
Additionally, the Indian team is currently grappling with injury setbacks to some of its key players. Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the entire tour, while Jasprit Bumrah's knee injury forced the BCCI to bring Auqib Nabi as his replacement in the India Test squad vs Sri Lanka.
Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy are also nursing injuries, and hence won't participate in the two-match series. Therefore, if the Indian team suffers another injury blow, Harsh Dubey and Tanush Kotian can be easily drafted to the main squad as valuable all-round options.
Harsh Dubey and Tanush Kotian's First-Class records at a glance
Harsh Dubey has played 28 First-Class matches, amassing 1085 runs and scalping 136 wickets. On the other hand, Tanush Kotian is more experienced than the left-arm spinner, having featured in 44 First-Class games. Kotian has struck 2168 runs, while accounting for 131 dismissals with his right-arm off-spin.
Update- Later, the BCCI further included IPL stars Shivang Kumar and Vipraj Nigam as net bowlers.
Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah Replaced, USA Bowler Banned And AUS Squad- August 3 Cricket Highlights
