Colombo, August 5: In preparation for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka starting on August 15, India has added four net bowlers to assist its batting lineup. Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Vipraj Nigam, and wrist spinner Shivang Kumar have joined the team as net bowlers.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced this update on Wednesday, stating, “Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Tanush Kotian, and Vipraj Nigam have been included in the Indian team to help prepare for the first Test against Sri Lanka.” This announcement came after the team, led by Shubman Gill, began its first practice session at the Nondescripts Cricket Club (NCC) ground.
Although the likelihood of these four players making it to the main team or playing XI is slim, this experience presents a significant learning opportunity for them. Left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Dubey, who plays for Vidarbha in domestic cricket, made his ODI debut earlier this year against Afghanistan. He has also been part of the team for a Test against Afghanistan, a third ODI against England, and a T20 International series in Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, Mumbai’s off-spinner Kotian has shown consistent performance in domestic cricket over the past two seasons. He was included in the Indian team for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, stepping in for Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement from international cricket after the third match in Brisbane.
Leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam was part of the India A team during the 50-over tri-series held in Sri Lanka in June. He has showcased his skills with the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Representing Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket, Shivang has also played as a net bowler for the Indian team before a Test against Afghanistan in June in New Chandigarh.
After participating in a three-day practice match at the NCC from August 7 to 9, the Indian team will head to Galle, where the first Test match of the series will take place starting August 15. The second Test is scheduled to be held at the Sinhalese Sports Club from August 23 to 27.
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