India A vs Sri Lanka Unofficial Test 2026: Complete Fixtures, Match Timings, Lineups & Everything You Need To Know

ByTech Word News

NEW DELHI: India A’s tour of Sri Lanka enters its multi-day phase with the opening of a two-match unofficial Test series, offering several rising stars a unique opportunity to strengthen their claims for higher honors in red-ball cricket. Led by wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel, India A will take on Sri Lanka A in two matches expected to provide a stern test of the visitors’ long-standing credentials.Pacer Aquib Nabi will be among those eager to make a strong statement when the series begins in Galle on Thursday. Nabi, who took 60 wickets in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy triumph, was overlooked for India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan, a decision that sparked debate among fans and pundits. Strong performances in Sri Lanka could further strengthen his case for national selection, especially with India scheduled to tour New Zealand later this year, where seam-friendly conditions could suit his bowling style.The series also presents a valuable opportunity for several fringe players and established artists. Apart from captain Jurel, Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal will look to strengthen their credentials in the race for a top-order berth. Fast bowler Anshul Kamboj, who is looking for redemption after a tough Test in England last year, and recent ODI debutant Harsh Dubey are also part of the squad. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Gurnoor Brar add further depth to a side brimming with talent and ambition.The red-ball assignment follows the limited-overs leg of the tour and will serve as an important platform for players gunning for places in the Indian senior set-up. With conditions in Sri Lanka traditionally rewarding spin, patience and discipline, the unofficial Tests are expected to provide a valuable learning experience and a meaningful measure of the team’s readiness for the next level.

Sri Lanka A vs India Unofficial Test Schedule 2026

First unofficial testDate: 25-28 June 2026Venue: Galle International StadiumSecond unofficial testDate: 2-5 July 2026Venue: Galle International StadiumLive match start timesBoth unofficial Tests are scheduled to start at: 10:00 local time (Sri Lanka)/10:00 IST

Teams IND A vs SL A

  • India A: Dhruv Jurel (captain, goalkeeper), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain, Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj, N. Rasheetkeeper, Shawickadeeshan (Shawicka) Ansari.

  • Sri Lanka A: Niroshan Dickwella (Goalkeeper), Nuwanidu Fernando, Ashen Bandara, Sahan Arachchige (Captain), Pawantha Weerasinghe, Dilum Sudeera, Ravindu Fernando, Keshara Nuwantha, Kavindu Pathiratne, Mohamed Shiraz, Dulaj Samuditha, Praveen Maneesha, Sohanra de, Asanka Manojsek Wickramasinghe.

Why the series mattersAlthough unofficial tests do not have international status, they are often considered a vital stepping stone to the highest level. For India, the tour provides an opportunity to assess bench strength and identify future contenders for the national side.