India captain Shubman Gill was back at the nets on Sunday, boosting hopes ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka.
Gill batted with his right ring finger heavily taped after sustaining an impact injury to it during practice earlier in the week.
He also took part in warm-up drills, initially using only his left hand as the medical staff continued monitoring his recovery.
India’s team management has not officially confirmed his availability for the first Test, but his return to batting is being viewed as encouraging.
Gill had 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.
The opening Test of the two-match series against Sri Lanka begins on August 15 at Galle International Stadium, leaving just under a week for his recovery.
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.
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.
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