- Shubman Gill has resumed training after his finger injury.
- His return boosts India's preparations for the Sri Lanka Tests.
- Gill will aim to regain full fitness ahead of the series.
India captain Shubman Gill has returned to batting at the nets, providing a major boost to the visitors ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.
Gill had missed the ongoing three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI after suffering an impact injury to his right ring finger during a practice session on Thursday. However, the 26-year-old was back in action on Sunday and took part in an extended batting session at the side nets.
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Shubman Gill Resumes Batting After Finger Injury
Gill was initially ruled out of the opening day of the warm-up fixture as a precautionary measure after hurting his finger. The Indian captain did not bat on the second day either, with Ravindra Jadeja instead coming in at No. 4.
With Gill's participation in the first Test becoming a growing concern, his return to batting on the final day of the practice match came as welcome news for the Indian camp.
Visuals from the session showed Gill facing both seamers and spinners. He appeared to bat without any visible discomfort, suggesting that the finger injury is not currently preventing him from training normally.
KL Rahul Leads India in Gill's Absence
In Gill's absence from the warm-up fixture, senior wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has been leading the Indian side.
While the practice match was primarily intended to help the squad prepare for the upcoming Test series, Gill's absence had attracted considerable attention given his role as captain and one of India's key batters.
His return to the nets should ease concerns surrounding his availability for the series opener.
India Begin Sri Lanka Test Series on August 15
India are scheduled to begin the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle on August 15.
The team will travel to Galle after the conclusion of the three-day warm-up match in Colombo. The second and final Test will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo from August 23 to 27.
Gill's return to active batting gives India valuable time to assess his fitness before the opening Test.
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India Eye WTC Points Against Sri Lanka
The series is also important for India's World Test Championship campaign. India currently sit fifth in the WTC points table, while Sri Lanka are sixth.
India's last Test appearance came in June in a one-off match against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh. With the WTC race beginning to take shape, the Indian team will be keen to collect valuable points in Sri Lanka.
Gill's fitness will therefore remain a key talking point as India prepare for the first Test in Galle.