India vs Sri Lanka | Hardik Pandya rested for Test series

The All-India Senior Selection Committee in consultation with the Indian team management has decided to rest all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Earlier, Pandya’s name was in the squad which was selected to play for the hosts against Sri Lanka for the first two Test matches. The team management took this decision to give some rest to the Baroda all-rounder. During this period, Pandya will rather work on his strength at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

The 24-year-old has been a permanent member in all three formats of the game lately, having made his Test debut earlier this year in Sri Lanka. With India set to tour South Africa after the home series against Sri Lanka, it was decided to give Pandya a break to ensure he doesn't face any major injury concerns as he is India's only genuine seam-bowling all-rounder.

Meanwhile, Punjab's Anmolpreet Singh has also been chosen to replace the injured Naman Ojha in the 13-man Board President's XI squad which will take on Sri Lanka in a warm-up match ahead of the first Test. In Ojha's absence, Kerala wicketkeeper Sanju Samson will lead the side.