{
  "id": 2571099,
  "title": "Kuldeep or Saransh? The subplot thickens as Colombo braces for a different script",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/22/kuldeep-or-saransh-the-subplot-thickens-as-colombo-braces-for-a",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-22T11:32:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-sri-lanka/kuldeep-yadav-or-saransh-jain-the-subplot-thickens-as-colombo-braces-for-a-different-script/articleshow/133422963.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In Colombo, a subplot has emerged concerning Kuldeep Yadav and Saransh Jain as the team prepares for an upcoming Test match. Kuldeep's absence from the second training session has sparked speculation about his participation in the match. While the official explanation was that he was being rested, his absence has raised eyebrows, especially considering his previous commitment to training even when benched. Saransh Jain, on the other hand, has been active, working out on both days and participating in pre-match practices with the coaching staff. Sri Lanka's decision to include left-handed batsmen, such as Kamil Mishara and Sahan Arachchige, further hints at the potential role Saransh could play in the team's batting lineup. While Kuldeep's bowling skills are well-known and highly regarded, the final decision on the bowling attack will be made by the team's captain, with a focus on maximizing the number of wickets taken. Both Kuldeep and Saransh remain strong contenders for the role, and the final choice will likely depend on the specific conditions and the team's strategic approach.",
  "summary": "Kuldeep Yadav's absence from India's final training sessions has intensified the selection intrigue ahead of the Colombo Test, with Saransh Jain's strong showing in the nets and Sri Lanka's left-hand-heavy batting line-up adding weight to the off-spinner's case. The second Test between India and Sri Lanka will start from Sunday at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground in Colombo.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}