Deep Dasgupta Raises Concerns Over India's Batting Before Sri Lanka Tests

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta has expressed concerns over India's batting ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, warning that the team's ability to handle spin-friendly conditions will be the biggest challenge. Speaking ahead of the series, Dasgupta said India's bowling attack appears well-equipped despite injuries, but the batting unit must prove it can overcome the difficulties posed by Sri Lanka's spinners on turning pitches. The two-Test series will be played from August 15 to 29 in Galle and Colombo as India looks to strengthen its position in the World Test Championship (WTC).

Dasgupta noted that India's recent struggles against spin bowling, particularly in defeats to New Zealand and South Africa, remain a cause for concern. He said Sri Lanka's home conditions are traditionally favourable for spin bowlers, making the challenge even greater for the visiting batters. According to him, the outcome of the series will largely depend on how well India's batting lineup adapts to pitches expected to offer significant turn throughout the matches.

While expressing confidence in India's bowling resources, Dasgupta highlighted the inclusion of off-spinner Saransh Jain as a valuable addition following Washington Sundar's absence. He pointed out that Jain brings both experience and batting ability, while left-arm spin options and Kuldeep Yadav provide further depth to the attack. However, he stressed that India's bowling department is not the primary concern, insisting that the batting unit will face the toughest examination in Sri Lanka.

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Looking beyond the immediate series, Dasgupta described India's remaining fixtures in the current WTC cycle as highly demanding. With Tests scheduled against Sri Lanka, Australia and New Zealand, he estimated that India may need to win around seven of its remaining nine matches to secure a place in the World Test Championship final. He cautioned against underestimating any opponent, saying away tours to Sri Lanka and New Zealand are among the most challenging assignments in world cricket.

Dasgupta also addressed the growing pressure on captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir during India's ongoing transition in Test cricket. He said that questions are inevitable after the team's recent performances, including home series defeats, and emphasised that both the leadership group and players are expected to deliver improved results. According to him, pressure is a natural part of international cricket, but the team must demonstrate consistent progress.

Concluding his assessment, Dasgupta said India's transition phase must show a clear sense of direction if the team is to return to sustained success in the longest format. While acknowledging the challenges that accompany rebuilding a Test side, he stated that performances over the coming months will reveal whether the current squad is moving in the right direction. The upcoming series against Sri Lanka is therefore expected to be a significant test of both India's batting resilience and its long-term development under the new leadership.

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