The Indian cricket team is putting the finishing touches to its preparations ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, with the players balancing intense training sessions with moments of lighter interaction. India completed a three-day warm-up game against Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo earlier this week before travelling to Galle for the series opener.

With the first Test scheduled to begin on August 15, the focus has now shifted towards final preparations and team combinations. Amid the busy schedule, a light-hearted exchange from one of India’s gym sessions caught the attention of cricket fans after it was shared on social media.

Rishabh Pant’s hilarious gym banter goes viral

The moment was captured during a workout session in which Rishabh Pant was seen alongside a member of India’s support staff. While watching him perform a one-arm preacher curl, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter could not resist making a cheeky comment.

Pant jokingly asked, “What are you doing? Dole shole!”

The amusing exchange was shared by Pant on his Instagram story, giving fans a glimpse into the relaxed atmosphere within the Indian camp. The 28-year-old is known for his lively personality off the field, and the playful interaction added a lighter moment to India’s preparations.

Here’s the video:

pic.twitter.com/nMqlgKPGHX

— Cricket Fan (@Cricketfan_five) August 11, 2026

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Pant prepares for Sri Lanka Test series

India travelled to Galle after completing a three-day warm-up game against Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo. The visitors secured a six-wicket victory, although Pant had limited success with the bat, scoring 2 and 28 in his two innings. The first Test will begin in Galle on August 15, with Pant expected to play an important role behind the stumps and in India’s middle order.

Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta has also backed Pant to return to his naturally aggressive approach during the series. He believes the left-hander should have the freedom to attack rather than becoming overly defensive, particularly against Sri Lanka’s left-arm spinners.

Pant had earlier produced a crucial performance in India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan in June, scoring 81 off 121 deliveries as India secured a massive innings-and-300-run victory. With the Sri Lanka series now approaching, India will hope the wicketkeeper-batter can carry that impact into the longest format once again.

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