India head coach Gautam Gambhir welcomed the team’s newest members ahead of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, congratulating debutant Saransh Jain, pacer Auqib Nabi and newly appointed fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh. With just nine days left before the opening Test in Galle, Gambhir also urged the squad to stay focused and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Addressing the players during a team meeting, Gambhir praised the newcomers for earning their opportunities through consistent performances and reminded them that their journey had only just begun.
Gambhir Congratulates Debutant Saransh Jain
Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Saransh Jain received his maiden India call-up after impressive domestic performances and a strong outing for India A against Sri Lanka A. He joins India’s spin department alongside Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and Manav Suthar for conditions expected to favour spin.
Welcoming Jain, Gambhir said:
“Welcome, everyone. We’ve got a couple of new guys in. Saransh, congratulations. You’ve worked extremely hard to be here. Make sure that you make your family and country proud whenever you get that opportunity.”
Jain earned his place after Washington Sundar was ruled out through injury. His match figures of 6/158 and a valuable 70 runs for India A strengthened his selection case.
Auqib Nabi Rewarded For Outstanding Ranji Trophy Season
Gambhir also congratulated Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi, who replaced the injured Jasprit Bumrah in the squad.
Nabi finished as the highest wicket-taker in the recent Ranji Trophy season with 60 wickets, playing a key role in Jammu & Kashmir’s historic title-winning campaign.
“Congratulations, Auqib. You’ve had a phenomenal last season and helped J&K win the Ranji Trophy, which is a great achievement. Congratulations once again,” Gambhir told the fast bowler.
Subhadeep Ghosh Joins India’s Support Staff
The Indian team also welcomed Subhadeep Ghosh as its new fielding coach, replacing T Dilip.
Gambhir praised Ghosh’s vast coaching experience and expressed confidence that his energy and expertise would help improve India’s fielding standards.
“He’s worked with so many teams for so many years. I’m sure his passion and commitment will carry this team forward and help everyone achieve the targets we have set,” Gambhir said.
‘We Know What’s In Front Of Us’: Gambhir’s Message
With India currently seventh in the ICC World Test Championship standings, Gambhir reminded the squad of the importance of the remaining nine Tests.
He urged the players to maximise their preparation so they are ready for every challenge when the series begins on August 15.
“We know what’s in front of us. We know what we are playing for. We can push our limits and tick all the boxes. Come the morning of August 15, whether we bat first or bowl first, we should be absolutely ready with all the answers for every question thrown at us,” Gambhir said.
India will begin the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle on August 15, with the second Test scheduled to be played in Colombo.
