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India is weighing a strategy to field three specialist spinners for the first Test in Galle.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel indicated that Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Manav Suthar could feature.
Morkel dismissed concerns regarding the similarity of three left-armers in the same lineup.
He highlighted Kuldeep’s wrist-spin, Jadeja’s accuracy, and Suthar’s significant turn as distinct threats.
More context
The Galle pitch traditionally offers increasing assistance to spin as matches progress.
Despite the spin focus, Morkel stressed that pace bowlers remain vital for reverse swing.
Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna are expected to provide high-intensity hit-the-deck bowling.
Former players have questioned whether leadership is fully convinced of Kuldeep Yadav’s role.
Manav Suthar’s batting ability at number eight may give him a selection advantage.
The team must adapt to high humidity and a ball that softens quickly in Sri Lankan conditions.
Morkel believes the current spin trio possesses the necessary skill to take all 20 wickets.
A final decision on the bowling combination will likely depend on the match-day surface.