Why is India picking three left-arm spinners for Galle?

India are set to field three left-arm spinners in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. Bowling coach Morne Morkel said the combination offers distinct skills — Kuldeep brings wrist spin and attacking threat, Jadeja brings control and accuracy, and Suthar turns the ball more than the other two. Morkel added that the Galle surface traditionally assists spin as the match progresses, so the trio becomes a genuine attacking option.

The selection comes amid transition in India's spin department. Jadeja is in the twilight of his career, while Suthar took seven wickets on debut against Afghanistan. Former spinner Murali Kartik believes the series will test whether Kuldeep can finally emerge as the next spin leader after limited opportunities under previous regimes. India sit fifth in the World Test Championship standings and need strong results to stay in contention for the 2027 final.