New Delhi: Ace India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on August 15 in Galle, because of discomfort in his left knee.

Bumrah had earlier missed India’s ODI series decider against England at Lord’s on July 19 after sustaining an impact injury to his left knee and developing reactive swelling while fielding during the second ODI in Cardiff.

A source told IANS on Sunday that recent reports suggesting Bumrah had cleared a fitness test did not reflect the current situation. “The day certain reports said Bumrah passed his fitness test for the Sri Lanka tour, the reality was that he hadn’t started bowling yet at that time. He hasn’t bowled a ball while being at the BCCI CoE in Bengaluru this week, where the medical team felt he needs more time to recover as he could aggravate the knee injury if Bumrah plays straightaway. His total recovery is a priority and it means he’s likely to miss out on the trip to Sri Lanka,” the source said.

Bumrah was initially named in the Shubman Gill-led Test squad subject to fitness clearance. With his availability now in doubt, the Ajit Agarkar-headed senior selection committee is expected to name a replacement. Jammu and Kashmir seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi has emerged as the front-runner.

Nabi claimed 60 wickets in helping Jammu and Kashmir win the Ranji Trophy earlier this year. He also took six wickets in two matches during the India A tour of Sri Lanka in June-July and trained with the national side ahead of the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh in June.

Apart from Bumrah, India’s fast-bowling group for the series includes Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar. The Test squad is scheduled to arrive in Sri Lanka on August 4.

The team will play a three-day practice match at the Nondescripts Cricket Club in Colombo from August 7 to 9 before travelling to Galle. The first Test will be held at the Galle International Stadium from August 15 to 19, followed by the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27.

Bumrah’s absence would deprive India of its spearhead on a tour where seam and spin are both expected to play significant roles. Selectors are prioritising his longer-term fitness while assessing available options to fill the vacancy in the pace attack.