Sri Lanka have announced a revamped playing XI for the second and final Test against the West Indies in North Sound, with injuries and illness forcing multiple changes ahead of the must-win contest. Having suffered an innings defeat in the series opener, the visitors need a victory to level the two-match series. However, their task has become significantly tougher after a string of setbacks reduced their available squad and disrupted their preparations.
Injury crisis forces major reshuffle
Sri Lanka’s squad has been severely depleted in the lead-up to the decisive Test, with injuries taking a heavy toll on their pace attack and batting unit. What began as a 17-member touring squad has now effectively shrunk to just 13 fit players, leaving the team management with limited options.
The biggest blow came when opening batter Pathum Nissanka left the tour on June 30 to undergo wrist surgery in the United Kingdom. His absence not only weakens Sri Lanka’s top order but also raises uncertainty over his participation in the upcoming Lanka Premier League. Nissanka has been one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable batters in recent months, making his loss particularly significant.
Sri Lanka’s bowling resources have also been stretched. Fast bowlers Lahiru Kumara and Vishwa Fernando remain unavailable after failing to recover from their respective injuries. Kumara continues his rehabilitation from a recurring hamstring problem after bowling just one over in the first Test, while Vishwa has been ruled out due to persistent back and side pain.
Two debutants receive big opportunity
The injury concerns have prompted a debut, with seamer Isitha Wijesundara earning his maiden Test cap. His inclusion also comes after Kasun Rajitha struggled to make an impact during the opening Test, giving the selectors an opportunity to freshen up the pace attack. Wijesundara will be expected to support senior quick Asitha Fernando, while all-rounder Milan Rathnayake could also shoulder additional responsibility with the ball.
Sri Lanka have also been forced into a change in their spin department. Off-spinning all-rounder Ramesh Mendis has been ruled out after contracting a bacterial infection during the tour. His absence has paved the way for the return of left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, who brings valuable experience and wicket-taking ability to the attack.
Further, to fill the vacancy of Nissanka, Lahiru Udara has been drafted into the playing XI and is set to make his Test debut. The opener now has a golden opportunity to establish himself on the international stage in a high-pressure situation.
Despite the setbacks, Sri Lanka will hope that experienced campaigners such as captain Dhananjaya de Silva, Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis can provide the stability needed to challenge the West Indies.
Sri Lanka face must-win challenge
The visitors head into the second Test under immense pressure after an innings defeat in the series opener left them trailing 1-0. With the series on the line, Sri Lanka will need their reshaped squad to adapt quickly and produce a far stronger performance. While the number of enforced changes is far from ideal, the match also presents a chance for fresh faces to make an immediate impact. Debutants Udara and Wijesundara will be eager to seize their opportunity, while the returning Prabath Jayasuriya adds experience to a bowling attack hit hard by injuries.
Sri Lanka’s Playing XI for the 2nd Test against West Indies: Nishan Madushka, Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Kusal Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, Milan Rathnayake, Isitha Wijesundara, Prabath Jayasuriya and Asitha Fernando.
