IND vs SL, Asia Cup 2025: Here’s why Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube are not playing today’s match

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The much-anticipated 18th match of the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours is set to take place today at Dubai International Cricket Stadium where India will face Sri Lanka. The match holds significance for India as they fine-tune their playing XI ahead of the final against Pakistan, while Sri Lanka are playing for pride after being knocked out of the tournament. One of the biggest talking points ahead of this game has been the absence of India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Shivam Dube from the playing XI.

India’s team management has decided to rest Bumrah and Dube in today’s encounter against Sri Lanka. Bumrah, who is a vital part of India’s bowling attack, has been rested to manage his workload ahead of the Asia Cup final against Pakistan on Sunday and the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies starting just days after the final. Arshdeep Singh replaces Bumrah, bringing fresh energy to the pace lineup. Dube has also been rested, with Harshit Rana coming into the team to strengthen the bowling depth.

At the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav said, “Just continue doing what we have been doing. We were actually looking to bat first. Good atmosphere, good game, and we are looking forward to it. It is part of the game (dropped catches). We have two changes – Bumrah and Dube are out, Arshdeep and Harshit come in.” This approach reflects India’s intent to keep key players fresh for crucial upcoming fixtures while giving bench players such as Arshdeep and  Rana opportunities to showcase their skills under competitive pressure.

Also WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah exhibits left-arm spin bowling skills ahead of IND vs SL Super 4 game

India: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara

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