Gautam Gambhir delivers strong message to Team India ahead of Sri Lanka Test series

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has laid down the standards he expects from his players ahead of the team's two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, urging them to leave no stone unturned in their preparation for the crucial World Test Championship assignment.

The Indian side is currently gearing up for the series, which begins on August 15 in Galle, after arriving in Sri Lanka earlier this week. Before the opening Test, the visitors will play a three-day warm-up game to fine-tune their preparations.

Addressing the squad, Gambhir stressed the importance of being mentally and physically prepared for every situation that may arise during the series.

“We know what’s in front of us, we know what we are playing for. We can do the volume, we can push our limits, we can tick all the boxes,” said Gambhir in a video posted by BCCI.

“Come 15th morning (August 15), whether we are batting first, whether we are bowling first, we're absolutely ready with every answer, every question that’s thrown at us, and every answer we are ready to give. So make sure we tick all the boxes from now on,” he continued.

The upcoming series carries added significance for India, as it marks their next World Test Championship assignment following the one-off Test victory against Afghanistan earlier this year. The visitors will be keen to register an away series win and improve their position in the WTC standings, where they currently occupy fifth place.

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The India head coach also took time to welcome the two uncapped players in the squad, Saransh Jain and Auqib Nabi. Jain, the experienced Madhya Pradesh all-rounder, has earned his maiden Test call-up after years of consistent performances in domestic cricket.

“We’ve got a couple of new guys in. To start with, Saransh, congratulations. You’ve worked extremely hard to be here. Make sure that you make your family and your country proud, whenever you get that opportunity.”

Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi was drafted into the squad following Jasprit Bumrah's injury after an outstanding Ranji Trophy season that saw him play a key role in his side's maiden title triumph.

“Secondly, I want to congratulate Auqib. You had a phenomenal last season, made J&K win the Ranji Trophy, which is a great achievement. Congratulations once again," he concluded.

With a mix of experienced campaigners and fresh faces in the squad, India will hope to begin the Sri Lanka series on a positive note as they continue their quest for a place in the 2027 World Test Championship Final.