India captain Shubman Gill will not take the field on the opening day of the practice match against SLC XI here on Friday (August 7, 2026) after sustaining an injury to his right finger during practice.

Gill picked up the niggle during a training session here on Thursday (August 5) and as result, K.L. Rahul is leading the side in his absence.

SLC XI has won the toss and opted to bat in the three-day practice game.

“Captain Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right ring finger during India’s practice on Thursday. As a precautionary measure, he will not take the field on Day 1 of the warm-up game against SLC XI. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress,” the BCCI posted on its ‘X’ handle.

“KL Rahul will lead the team in Gill’s absence.”

India are touring Sri Lanka for a two-Test series, starting at Galle on August 15.

The second Test will be played here from August 23.