Sri Lanka have made significant changes to their squad for the second and final Test against India after a heavy defeat in Galle. With key batters Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal unavailable, the hosts have brought uncapped duo into the squad for the Colombo Test, which begins on August 23.
Injuries force Sri Lanka into changes
Sri Lanka’s 0-1 series deficit has been compounded by a growing list of batting concerns. Mendis has been ruled out after suffering what coach Gary Kirsten described as a ‘proper hamstring injury’ during the opening Test. The wicketkeeper-batter is expected to remain sidelined for some time. Niroshan Dickwella had already been added to the squad as cover for Mendis and is now in line to take over the wicketkeeping duties.
Chandimal’s absence is also confirmed after he entered concussion protocols following an injury on the fourth day in Galle. Under the mandatory stand-down period, he cannot return for the Colombo Test. Pathum Nissanka remains another concern as he continues his recovery from wrist surgery. His unavailability has left Sri Lanka searching for additional options at the top and middle of the order.
Batting all-rounder earns reward for India A performance
Sahan Arachchige has received his first Test call-up after making a strong impression for Sri Lanka A against India A. The all-rounder produced an important 127 in the second unofficial Test, finishing as Sri Lanka A’s highest run-scorer across the series. Arachchige’s innings came while he was batting at No. 5 and leading Sri Lanka A. Although his side eventually suffered a 10-wicket defeat, his individual performance provided a timely boost to his Test ambitions. With Sri Lanka suddenly short of experienced batting options, his ability to contribute with both bat and ball could prove valuable in Colombo.
LPL talent arrives after stunning show in T20 event
Kamil Mishara has also earned his place on the back of impressive recent form. The batter enjoyed a productive first Lanka Premier League campaign before carrying that momentum into the Major Clubs T20 tournament. Mishara’s timing could hardly have been better. On the same day that he received his Test call-up, he smashed a breathtaking 145 from just 72 deliveries. The explosive knock strengthened his case for a place in Sri Lanka’s starting XI.
Sri Lanka have already had to adjust their combination during the series, with Pasindu Sooriyabandara stepping in as Chandimal’s concussion substitute in Galle. The latest changes could lead to another reshuffle as the hosts look to recover from their opening-Test loss.
Sri Lanka squad for 2nd Test (Updated): Nishan Madushka, Lahiru Udara, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Niroshan Dickwella (wicketkeeper), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Sonal Dinusha, Milan Priyanath Rathnayake, Keshara Nuwantha, Kamil Mishara and Sahan Arachchige
