Gill’s return to batting boosts hopes ahead of Sri Lanka Test

India captain Shubman Gill’s return to batting practice on Sunday has boosted hopes ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka.

Gill batted in the nets with his right ring finger heavily taped, having sustained an impact injury to it during practice earlier in the week.

He also joined warm-up drills, initially using only his left hand as the medical team continued to track his progress.

The team management has not officially confirmed his availability for the first Test, though his return to batting is seen as a positive development.

Gill missed Day 1 of India’s three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI as a precaution, with vice-captain KL Rahul leading the side in his absence.

The two-match Test series against Sri Lanka begins on August 15 at Galle International Stadium, giving Gill just under a week before the opener.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has overseen India’s preparation throughout the tour, with the squad using the Colombo fixture specifically to adjust to sub-continental batting and bowling conditions.

Gill sustained the impact injury to his right ring finger during India’s practice session on Thursday, prompting the BCCI to rule him out of Day 1 of the warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI as a precaution.

The BCCI said in a statement that its medical team was monitoring Gill’s progress, without immediately confirming a timeline for his return to full training or match action.

India completed their three-day warm-up fixture against Sri Lanka XI with a six-wicket win on August 9, with vice-captain KL Rahul leading the side throughout Gill’s absence.

The opening Test of the two-match series against Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin on August 15 at Galle International Stadium, giving Gill just under a week for his finger to recover further.

Devdutt Padikkal was the standout performer in the warm-up match, finishing unbeaten on 142 in India’s successful run chase after also scoring a century in the first innings.

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