Predicted Playing XI of India in 2nd Semi-Final of Asian Games 2026 against Sri Lanka

India are set to face Sri Lanka in the second semi-final of the men’s cricket competition at the 2026 Asian Games, with the defending champions finally hoping to get their campaign underway after rain washed out their quarter-final against Afghanistan. The high-profile contest is scheduled to take place at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on October 1.

Shreyas Iyer’s side entered the knockout stage as the top-seeded team and progressed to the semi-finals without bowling a single delivery against Afghanistan. Sri Lanka’s quarter-final against Nepal also suffered the same fate, meaning both sides will enter the last-four clash without competitive match practice at the Asian Games.

India have a strong squad featuring several established T20 internationals, including Jasprit Bumrah, Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma and Axar Patel. However, with only 14 players currently available after Nitish Kumar Reddy was withdrawn from the Asian Games squad and Varun Chakaravarthy was replaced by Vipraj Nigam, there are still some interesting selection calls for the team management.

Here is India’s predicted playing XI for the semi-final against Sri Lanka.

1. Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma is expected to open the innings and provide India’s aggressive start. His ability to attack the new ball while also contributing with left-arm spin makes him an important component of the side. India could look to him to put Sri Lanka’s bowling attack under pressure during the powerplay.

2. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

The teenage batting sensation could partner Abhishek at the top. Vaibhav has already been trusted in India’s T20 setup during 2026, and the Asian Games provide another opportunity for him to showcase his fearless strokeplay on the international stage.

His inclusion would also allow India to maintain a left-right combination at the top.

3. Shreyas Iyer (C)

Captain Shreyas Iyer is likely to occupy the No. 3 position and control the middle phase of the innings. He brings considerable experience to an otherwise youthful batting group and will also have the responsibility of making tactical decisions against Sahan Arachchige’s Sri Lanka.

With no quarter-final action, Iyer will be eager to lead from the front.

4. Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma should slot into the middle order as India’s vice-captain. His ability to rotate the strike and accelerate against spin makes him particularly valuable in the middle overs.

He can also provide a left-handed option alongside Iyer, giving India flexibility against Sri Lanka’s varied bowling attack.

5. Sanju Samson (WK)

Sanju Samson is expected to take the wicketkeeping gloves while occupying a crucial middle-order position. His experience in T20 cricket and ability to clear the boundaries make him a major threat once the field spreads.

With Ishan Kishan also in the squad, India have two established wicketkeeping options, but Samson’s experience could give him the edge.

6. Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube could provide the power-hitting option in the lower middle order. His ability to attack spin and contribute with medium pace gives India additional balance.

In a knockout game, his role could become particularly important if India lose early wickets or need a late-innings acceleration.

7. Axar Patel

Axar Patel is likely to be India’s primary all-round option in the lower middle order. His left-arm spin can be particularly useful against Sri Lanka’s right-handed batters, while his batting allows India to deepen the lineup.

His experience in high-pressure T20 games also strengthens India’s combination.

8. Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar could partner Axar to give India a strong spin-heavy middle-overs attack. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and contribute useful runs down the order makes him a valuable tactical option.

On a surface offering assistance to slower bowlers, Sundar could have a major role.

9. Jasprit Bumrah

The presence of Jasprit Bumrah adds experience and quality to India’s pace department. The premier seamer can operate with the new ball and return at the death, giving Iyer an elite option during crucial phases.

Bumrah’s return to the Asian Games squad was confirmed after he received fitness clearance.

10. Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep Singh should partner Bumrah as India’s second frontline pacer. His left-arm angle provides variety, while his ability to bowl yorkers at the death makes him an important part of India’s T20 plans.

He could also be entrusted with the new ball if Iyer wants to create an early matchup against Sri Lanka’s top order.

11. Ravi Bishnoi

Ravi Bishnoi is likely to complete India’s bowling attack. The leg-spinner’s ability to bowl quickly through the air and attack the stumps makes him a useful weapon in the middle overs.

Against a Sri Lankan batting lineup that includes several players comfortable against pace, Bishnoi could be asked to break partnerships.

India’s Predicted Playing XI

Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Shreyas Iyer (C), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (WK), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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