India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has asked the team to give their best performance in the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The series will begin on August 15, with the first Test to be played in Galle. As the matches are part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), they are important for India’s chances of improving its position in the tournament standings.
India is currently fifth in the WTC table with a points percentage of 48.15. After some disappointing results in recent Test matches, the team needs strong performances to move up the standings and stay in the race for a place in the WTC final. Every match and every point will be important.
Speaking to the players after the team arrived in Sri Lanka, Gambhir stressed the importance of being fully prepared. He told the squad that they must be ready for every situation, whether they bat first or bowl first. He encouraged the players to plan carefully, stay focused, and avoid making mistakes during the series.
Gambhir reminded the team that good preparation is the key to success. He told the players to make sure they “tick every box” before the series begins so that they can handle any challenge on the field with confidence.
India’s last World Test Championship series ended in disappointment with a 0-2 defeat against South Africa in November 2025. Although the team recently recorded a convincing victory over Afghanistan, that match was not part of the World Test Championship. The upcoming series against Sri Lanka gives India an opportunity to return to winning ways in the WTC.
The squad also includes two new players, Auqib Nabi and Saransh Jain, who have earned their places through impressive domestic performances. Gambhir praised both youngsters for their dedication and hard work. He encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity and represent the country with pride.
Speaking to Saransh Jain, Gambhir said that he had worked hard to reach this stage and should make his family and the nation proud. He also praised Auqib Nabi for his excellent performances during the previous season and urged him to continue playing with the same confidence and commitment.
The first Test match will be played in Galle on August 15, while the second Test will begin in Colombo on August 23. Cricket fans will be hoping India starts the series strongly and earns valuable World Test Championship points with good performances in both matches.